UMVA has learned that a 19‑year‑old suspect has been formally charged with first‑degree murder for the killing of Toronto Police Constable Marc Pinizzotto.
The accused, Nicholas Bennett, appeared virtually from his hospital bed on June 19, 2026, after surviving six gunshot wounds sustained during the fatal attack on the officer. He gave a thumbs‑up to confirm he could hear and understand the proceedings, while police officials coordinated the remote appearance with hospital staff.
Pinizzotto was shot at approximately 5:20 a.m. while executing a high‑risk search warrant on Black Creek Drive and Trethewey Drive. The incident marks Toronto’s thirteenth homicide of 2026 and has sent shockwaves through the law‑enforcement community.
Investigators say the murder is linked to a broader gun‑for‑hire scheme uncovered earlier this year, involving encrypted phone apps used to procure shooters. Alongside Bennett, three other young men—Zara Jabbi, Sheldon Tracey‑Stewart, and Jayon Burgher—have been charged in connection with the alleged plot.
While Bennett’s photograph remains unavailable, police have released images of the three co‑accused, underscoring the secrecy that shrouds the network behind the crime.
Pinizzotto’s death follows a recent tragedy in which an Emergency Task Force officer was killed during a warrant to seize firearms tied to a March 10 shooting at the U.S. consulate and prior attacks on Jewish schools and synagogues. The compounded loss has left the force reeling.
In tribute to the fallen officer, a private funeral will be held next Wednesday at the Toronto Congress Centre, with more than 10,000 officers from across Canada expected to attend.
Mayor Carolyn Parrish of Mississauga announced that Indian Road Park will be renamed Constable Marc Pinizzotto Park, featuring a brass plaque and permanent seating area to honor his legacy as a devoted family man, coach, and community pillar.
Pinizzotto’s mother, Linda, expressed heartfelt gratitude to city officials and pledged to continue advocating for police and community safety in her son’s memory.
