THUNDER BAY — A 25-year-old has been charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of a Toronto man last weekend.
The suspect, Russel Brayden Moonias of Thunder Bay, was identified and arrested on Thursday as a result of the investigation into the homicide at a home in the 300 block of Ogden Street, the Thunder Bay Police Service announced in a Friday news release.
Also on Friday, police named the victim as Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, a 24-year-old from Toronto.
The victim was found dead in the home on Sunday afternoon after police received a call indicating a possible death.
Police believe the killing took place between 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14 and 6 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 15.
Police have said evidence established the case as a shooting connected to the illegal drug trade, but offered few further details in a media availability Friday.
Det.-Inspector Jeremy Pearson indicated the force is not currently seeking further suspects in connection with Ali's death, while adding the service is always open to new information.
While affirming ties to the drug trade, Pearson said there was no indication the killing was gang-related.
"The specific relationship between the two individuals, at this point, is evolving – that's something that is still subject to the investigation," he said. "The interaction, however, has its roots, in our belief, in the illicit drug trade, and that’s what led to their interaction and this homicide."
The investigation continues while officers liaise with forensic scientists, Pearson said.
Moonias was expected to appear in court on Friday.
The charge has yet to be tested in court.
