Two 16-Year-Olds Charged With First-Degree Murder In Fatal Stabbing Of Abdoul Aziz Sarr

Two 16-year-old boys have been charged with first-degree murder in the death of 14-year-old Abdoul Aziz Sarr, following a tragic stabbing earlier this month in Toronto’s east end.

The teens turned themselves in to police days apart, after investigators issued an appeal to the public for information. Both suspects, whose names are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, are Toronto residents.

The stabbing occurred on the night of July 5, near Eastern and Woodward Avenues, west of Coxwell Avenue, just after 10 p.m. Emergency responders were flagged down at a nearby fast-food restaurant, where they found Sarr with critical injuries. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sarr, described by friends and family as a bright and caring young person, became Toronto’s 19th homicide victim of 2025. His death has sent shockwaves through the Beaches community and beyond, prompting grief and reflection on the growing issue of youth violence in the city.

Toronto police had initially urged “hundreds” of potential witnesses from the area that night to come forward with cellphone footage or information. The investigation remains active as officers continue gathering evidence.

The first suspect surrendered earlier in the week, while the second turned himself in on Friday. Both appeared in court at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre.

The Youth Criminal Justice Act prohibits the release of their identities, a measure designed to protect young offenders from lifelong stigma while allowing for rehabilitation.

This case highlights the complexity of youth violence and raises urgent questions about how Toronto can better support its young people. Advocates stress the importance of investing in safe spaces, mentorship programs, and resources that address the root causes of violence; poverty, systemic inequities, and a lack of opportunity.

A GoFundMe page has since been set up in partnership with the Mecca Islamic Centre for Sarr’s family to cover burial costs and support. 

Anyone with further information about the incident is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or www.222tips.com.

As the city mourns the loss of another youth to violence, community members are calling for change to ensure no more lives are cut short.