Man wanted in Brampton murder of ex-partner captured and charged

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The Brampton man wanted in the murder of his 29-year old ex-partner last Friday morning has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder.

Peel Regional Police say 29-year-old Linval Alfonso Ritchie was found with the help of Hamilton Police on Sunday and was held for a bail hearing.

It’s alleged Ritchie fled the crime scene, a Brampton home in the area of Aloma Cresc. and Avondale Blvd., and evaded police until his capture.

Ritchie had an extensive criminal history including violence and a five-year weapons prohibition.

Peel Regional Police received a call just before 6 a.m, Friday about a disturbance and arrived to find a deceased woman inside the home with obvious signs of trauma.

“I am grateful for the work of our investigators and the collaboration with policing partners that led to the quick arrest of Linval Ritchie,’ said Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah in a statement.

“It was critical to locate and arrest this individual, who was a clear threat to public safety. We understand the profound impact this tragedy has had on many people and the community. We will continue to work with our partners to end intimate partner violence.”

The victim was since identified as Vanessa Virgioni, the mother of a young son Elijah, 7, and a GoFundMe was set up to help Elijah.

Chief Duraiappah added, “This is a tragic outcome for a young woman and an incredibly difficult trauma certainly for the family and the officers who witnessed the results of this violent act. I extend my sincerest condolences to the loved ones who have been left behind.”

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Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide and Missing Person Bureau Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453–2121, ext. 3205 or information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).