Toronto Man Charged with Murder in November House Fire Death
TORONTO – A 34-year-old Toronto man is facing a first-degree murder charge following the death of an 84-year-old woman in a house fire last month. Toronto police announced the arrest Friday, identifying the victim as Giovanna Balestrieri.
On November 15th, at approximately 11 p.m., emergency services responded to a fire at a residence located near Avenue Road and Boswell Avenue. Firefighters discovered Balestrieri inside the home and transported her to hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Investigators quickly resolute the fire was deliberately set. A preliminary inquiry conducted by Toronto police and the Ontario Fire Marshal deemed the incident “arson with a criminal component,” leading to a homicide investigation.
The suspect was taken into custody Friday and was expected to appear in court later that day.
Police are continuing to investigate and are asking anyone with data to contact them directly or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
