Over a year after the tragic discovery of a deceased man in a commercial unit in Vaughan, York Regional Police (YRP) have charged two individuals with first-degree murder. The investigation, which spanned a considerable period, also led to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and illegal drugs.
York Regional Police disclosed on Tuesday that Daniel Fearon, 40, and Sherrie Donovan, 41, both from Toronto, have been accused of first-degree murder in connection with the demise of Deuvane Donald Francis from Toronto.
Police responded to a commercial property near Langstaff Road and Jane Street on Aug. 27, 2025, after reports of an injured individual were received at about 2:36 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers found a man in one of the units with evident signs of trauma and declared him deceased at the scene. The investigation determined that Francis had been killed the day before, on Aug. 26, 2025.
After an extensive inquiry, homicide detectives identified two suspects, with one being apprehended on Sept. 22, 2026, and the other being detained a day later.
During the investigation, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the Niagara Region, where authorities confiscated nine firearms, ammunition, and substantial amounts of suspected illegal drugs.
Investigators discovered over 900 grams of cocaine, more than 200 grams of ketamine, over 20 grams of methamphetamine, as well as firearms and ammunition.
Apart from the murder charge, Fearon is facing multiple weapons and drug-related allegations, including possession for the purpose of trafficking cocaine, ketamine, and methamphetamine, along with various firearms offences involving unauthorized possession and storage of firearms, prohibited devices, and ammunition.
Police claim that the seized weapons included six prohibited firearms and three non-restricted firearms.
Despite the arrests, the case is still active, as authorities believe that at least two unidentified suspects are at large. York Regional Police are urging the public to come forward with any information by contacting the York Regional Police Homicide Unit.
