83-Year-Old Woman Fatally Injured in Pickering Random Attack Identified
Police charge 14-year-old with first-degree murder after elderly woman, Eleanor Doney, is fatally stabbed in Pickering's random daylight attack.
Durham Regional Police have identified the victim of a tragic and random attack last week in Pickering as 83-year-old Eleanor Doney. The incident, which has left the local community shocked and grieving, occurred on the afternoon of May 20 in the Fairport Road and Lynn Heights Drive area.
According to investigators, Doney was tending to her garden in the front yard of her home when a 14-year-old boy, described as wearing a long black trench coat reaching his ankles, allegedly approached and began stabbing her without warning. The attack happened in broad daylight, adding to the shock and horror felt by many residents in the quiet suburban neighborhood.
Doney was quickly rushed to the hospital, but despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, she was pronounced dead from her injuries. The swift response by emergency crews and subsequent police investigation led to the arrest of the suspect later that evening. The youth, who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, now faces a charge of first-degree murder.
Eleanor Doney’s family, whose heartbreak has resonated throughout the community, released a statement thanking neighbors, friends, and first responders for their “outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.” They said, “We especially want to thank the first responders for all of their efforts. We take comfort in the fact that she was a woman of strong Christian faith.”
Doney, a retired kindergarten teacher who lived at home with her husband, is remembered for her dedication to children and her community. To date, police have indicated there is no known connection between her and the young suspect, reinforcing the belief that the attack was entirely random.
The 14-year-old accused remains in custody and is scheduled to make his next court appearance on June 20. In the meantime, the investigation continues as police work to understand the events leading up to the tragedy and whether any further steps are needed to ensure the safety of residents in the area.
