September 03, 2025
RED FM News Desk
A shocking and violent incident unfolded in Markham on Monday morning, where a woman was kidnapped and a man was shot during a home invasion linked to the abduction.
According to York Regional Police, it all began around 8 a.m. near McCowan Road and Highway 407. A woman was driving in the area when her vehicle was deliberately struck by another car. As she stepped out to check the damage, a second vehicle — an older model grey Dodge Caravan — pulled up beside her. The suspects forcibly pulled her into the van, restrained her, and drove away from the scene.
Nearly an hour later, just before 9 a.m., police received reports of a break-in at a home near McCowan Road and 14th Avenue. Several suspects entered the residence and told the family inside that one of their relatives had been kidnapped. During the invasion, a 54-year-old man was shot.
Police responded quickly, and as five suspects attempted to flee, four were apprehended. At the scene, officers also recovered a loaded firearm and a stolen vehicle. One suspect managed to escape. He is described as a man between 18 and 25 years old, wearing dark clothing, a mask, and gloves.
The kidnapped woman was later found in Toronto with minor injuries, and her vehicle was recovered nearby.
Of the four arrested, two have been identified as 21-year-old Shakir Bhatti and 20-year-old Parkaran Panglia. The other two suspects are minors — a 16-year-old from Caledon and a 17-year-old from Toronto — whose identities are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
All four face multiple serious charges, including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, robbery with a firearm, possession of a prohibited firearm, disguise with intent, and possession of stolen property over $5,000. Police also noted that the 16-year-old was already out on release for unrelated charges, and Bhatti has since been granted bail.
York Regional Police believe that additional suspects may be involved in both the kidnapping and the home invasion, and investigations are ongoing.
Speaking at a press conference, York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween acknowledged the public concern and reassured the community of their commitment to safety. He stated that these violent incidents would be investigated thoroughly and that increased patrols would be deployed in high-risk areas across the region to help residents feel safe.
Loading ...
