'Senseless killing': Canada-wide warrant issued for 17-year-old male in connection with murder of Pickering Casino security guard

Police in Durham Region are looking for a 17-year-old boy they believe is responsible for the Thanksgiving Day murder of a casino security guard.

Police in Durham Region are looking for a 17-year-old boy they believe is responsible for the Thanksgiving Day murder of a casino security guard.

On Oct. 9, shortly after 5 a.m., officers from Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) were called to Pickering Casino Resort, near Highway 401 and Brock Road, for reports of “numerous” shots fired.

At the scene, they located on-duty security guard Michael Ferdinand, who had been shot. The 34-year-old Whitby resident was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

“(Ferdinand) was doing his job and ensuring the safety of all patrons of the casino. He was senselessly shot and killed. Michael went to work that day and didn't come home,” Det. Sgt. Brad Corner, of the force’s Major Crime – Homicide Unit, said during a Wednesday morning news conference.

“We now owe it to his family, friends, and co-workers to bring those responsible to justice.”

Police have obtained judicial authorization to identify the youth wanted for this homicide. That authorization will, however, expire on Nov. 11.