Toronto residents questioning safety of TTC again after man dies weeks after station attack

A 69-year-old man that was pushed to the ground during an attack at a TTC subway station last month has died in hospital, according to Toronto police. 

On Friday, July 7 just before 7 p.m., officers were called to Bloor subway station for an assault. It is alleged that the suspect approached a man and pushed him, causing him to fall to the ground. 

Sincere condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. Hope they got the person who did this.

— Patricia Basham (@PatriciaBasham8) August 11, 2023

The victim was subsequently transported to hospital by paramedics, and the suspect was located and arrested by police. 

Lovingston Williams, of Toronto was initially charged with one count of aggravated assault and obstructing police, but his charges have now been upgraded after the victim, Menghsteab Araia, of Toronto, succumbed to his injuries on Friday, Aug. 4.

Our city has fallen. Such a sad story. Condolences to his family. RIP

— Paula Mo (@PaulaMo34352500) August 11, 2023

Williams is now facing one count of manslaughter and obstructing police. 

He appeared in court at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on Aug. 9 to face the new charges. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.

Haven’t taken the TTC since 2019 and never will again 😔

— Lo (@the_lo_ho) August 10, 2023

This most recent attack has Toronto residents questioning the safety of the TTC once again, with many claiming that they've made an effort to avoid the transit network altogether after an unprecedented surge in violent attacks. 

So glad I stopped taking the @TTC and found a job closer to home. Spent most of my time hiding in the alcove near the accessible elevator hoping not to be another victim. This was avoidable.

— J Penney (@JPenney19) August 10, 2023

This isn't the first time a seemingly random attack has taken place at Bloor-Yonge subway station this year. On Feb. 19, another person was pushed by a man onto the subway tracks at the station.

The victim managed to climb back onto the platform uninjured, and the suspect eventually turned himself in to the police.