A 31-year-old man has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of a 60-year-old man in downtown Toronto.

Adimabua Chukwuka, who resides in the city, was arrested by officers from the Toronto Police Service’s 52 Division last Friday after an appeal to the public helped identify the suspect.

The incident took place on the morning of 20 March, when emergency services were called to the area near 144 College Street, following a report of an unconscious individual. Despite the efforts of first responders, the victim, identified as Mario Ferreira, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Toronto Police say surveillance footage shows the victim lying on a bench at approximately 5:20 a.m., near Queen’s Park Crescent, when he was approached by a man carrying what appeared to be construction debris.

Detective Trevor Grieve described the attack as “unprovoked,” adding that the suspect allegedly used the debris to carry out the assault before fleeing the scene.

Authorities released an image of the suspect on 21 March, which led to his swift identification and arrest. Chukwuka has since been formally charged and remains in custody.

Under Section 235(1) of Canada’s Criminal Code, first-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence, with no eligibility for parole for a minimum of 25 years.

Police continue to urge anyone with information relating to the case to come forward.