Innisfil Man Charged in Whitchurch-Stouffville Arson
York Regional Police have arrested and charged an Innisfil man in connection with an arson that occurred in Whitchurch-Stouffville. The blaze burned for weeks last year before residents were permitted to return to the area.
On Sunday at 3:18 p.m., police and Central York Fire Services responded to reports of an industrial building fire near Warden Avenue and Aurora Road. Upon arrival, officers observed a large amount of smoke billowing from the premises. The fire caused an estimated $1 million in damages. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
A man was arrested at the scene. Filipe Da Silva, 59, of Innisfil, has been charged with arson, mischief – damage to property exceeding $5,000, utter threats – property, and two counts of utter threats – person. Investigators believe the incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7541. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at www.1800222tips.com.
Markham Assault on Youth Leads to Charges
In a separate incident, York Police have thanked the public for assistance in identifying a suspect wanted for an assault on a youth in Markham.
On April 13, 2026, at approximately 7:20 a.m., an assault occurred aboard a York Region Transit bus in the area of Yonge Street and Royal Orchard Boulevard. The victim, a female youth, was approached and assaulted by an adult male but sustained no physical injuries.
On Friday, Abi Ilyas, 40, of no fixed address, was charged with one count of assault. Investigators have released his photo, believing there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7241. Anonymous tips can also be made to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online.
