Toronto Police have launched a homicide investigation after an 84-year-old woman died in what detectives are calling a cowardly and deplorable arson attack.
Tragic Discovery in Avenue Road Area
Giovanna Balestrieri perished in a house fire that erupted Saturday night in the Avenue Road and Boswell Avenue area. Firefighters discovered the elderly woman on the second floor of her home and transported her to hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Detective-Sergeant Trevor Grieve confirmed on Monday that the blaze was deliberately set. We have determined this is an arson investigation with a criminal component to it, as a result we are treating this as a homicide, Grieve stated.
Video Evidence Captures Suspect
Investigators have obtained crucial video evidence showing a lone suspect approaching Balestrieri's residence on Saturday evening. The footage captures the individual going to the side of the house before an explosion and fire erupts.
The suspect then flees the scene shortly thereafter, said Grieve, who described the act as tragic and senseless. Police noted the suspect wore dark clothing but declined to release the video, citing poor quality that wouldn't aid the investigation.
An autopsy confirmed Balestrieri died from the blaze with no pre-existing injuries. The elderly woman lived alone and had family members traveling to Toronto from outside the GTA area.
Multi-Agency Investigation Continues
The investigation involves multiple agencies including the Ontario Fire Marshal, Toronto Fire Services, and Toronto Police's forensic identification services. Enbridge Gas also attended the scene to secure the gas line.
Grieve anticipates investigators will remain at the scene for several days completing their forensic examination. Homicide detectives are conducting door-to-door inquiries and seeking additional witnesses or video footage from area residents.
This marks Toronto's 36th homicide of 2025. Police have extended their deepest condolences to Balestrieri's family and continue to pursue all leads to identify the responsible individual.
