Homicide detectives are now investigating after police say a teenager killed in a hit-and-run in East York this morning was “intentionally struck.”
The collision occurred near Woodbine Avenue and O’Connor Drive at around 2 a.m.
Police say the victim, who is believed to be 16 years old, was on the sidewalk near a park in the neighbourhood when he was struck by a vehicle that left the roadway.
Police say a teen killed in a hit-and-run in East York this morning was “intentionally struck.”
Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run in East York on Monday morning. (Mike Nguyen/ CP24)
He was found in the area without vital signs and was later pronounced dead in hospital.
The vehicle, identified by police as a dark-coloured SUV, did not remain at the scene.
“Our investigation up to this point reveals that victim was intentionally struck by a motor-vehicle,” Det. Leslie Dunkley told reporters on Monday.
Dunkley said police believe there were two occupants inside the vehicle, which was last seen heading northbound on Woodbine Avenue.
Investigators confirmed that there was an interaction between the pedestrian and the people inside the vehicle before the victim was struck.
Witnesses also said it appeared the vehicle was following the victim prior to the incident.
The motive for the homicide is not yet clear.
Police say they are currently canvassing the area for security video and any possible witnesses.
“There will be damage to the front end of the vehicle,” Dunkley said, adding that anyone who spots a suspicious vehicle matching the description should contact police.
Suspect descriptions have not been released but police say they hope to release more information on Monday afternoon.