The Durham Regional Police Service has arrested an Oshawa man in connection with a stabbing that took place in the city’s downtown core earlier this year.
On February 26, 2026, at approximately 10:40 p.m., police were called to the area of Celina Street and Bruce Street for reports of an armed person. A male victim and his friend were walking when they were approached by three men. After a verbal altercation, one of the men stabbed the victim. The victim was transported to a Toronto-area trauma centre with serious injuries and has since been listed in stable condition.
Following an investigation, officers located 24-year-old William Taylor Hayes of Oshawa on March 26, 2026. He was taken into custody following a brief foot pursuit. Authorities noted that at the time of the stabbing, Hayes was already subject to a weapons prohibition and was on probation.
Hayes faces several charges, including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for committing an offence, and two counts of breaching probation. He was held in custody for a bail hearing.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Central East Division or provide information anonymously through Durham Regional Crime Stoppers.