Toronto Police have issued a public warning regarding a 33-year-old man who escaped from a psychiatric hospital in the city's west end. The individual, Dylan Sherief, was previously found not criminally responsible (NCR) for a random murder in 2022.
Public Urged Not to Approach
Authorities state that Sherief was last seen on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at approximately 10:30 a.m. in the area of Queen Street West and Ossington Avenue. This location is near the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). Police have emphasized that he should not be approached if seen.
"If located, do not approach and call 911 immediately," police warned in a statement. Sherief is currently subject to a Form 49 warrant of committal issued by the Ontario Review Board.
Background of the NCR Finding
Sherief was found not criminally responsible early last year for the second-degree murder of Nicola Maiorano, 57. The court heard that on December 6, 2022, Sherief targeted Maiorano, a stranger, in the Danforth area and stabbed him in the neck.
Superior Court Justice Maureen Forestell determined that Sherief, who suffers from schizoaffective disorder, lacked insight into his mental illness. He has been hospitalized multiple times on an involuntary basis since symptoms emerged in 2016. Court records indicate he believed his symptoms were caused by supernatural forces and would stop taking anti-psychotic medication when released.
Description and Prior Charges
Police have provided the following description of Dylan Sherief:
- Age: 33
- Height & Build: 6-foot-2, 215 pounds with a medium build
- Hair: Brown hair and a beard
- Distinguishing Features: Numerous tattoos on his face and neck
- Last Seen Wearing: A black hooded jacket, light brown pants, and black shoes with white soles
In a separate incident, Sherief was charged in January 2022 for allegedly impersonating a peace officer. He and another man were accused of using a vehicle with emergency lighting to stop cars in the Kingston Road and Brimley Road area while wearing tactical gear labeled "federal agent." The outcome of those charges is unclear.
Ongoing Search and Public Assistance
The Ontario Review Board's warrant of committal means Sherief was under a detention order at a provincial psychiatric hospital with specific conditions. His escape has triggered a city-wide search.
Police are urging anyone with information on Sherief's whereabouts to contact them directly at 416-808-1400 or to provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at 222tips.com.
