Investigators with the York Regional Police Cold Case Unit have identified human remains more than 40 years after they were found and are appealing for any information that may help them solve the cold case.
On July 16, 1980, a Markham resident discovered human remains on the side of the Eleventh Concession, between 14th Avenue and Steeles Avenue. Initial forensic testing identified the remains as a white man, between 25 and 40 years old, 5’6”, weighing between 100 and 120 pounds, with dark, medium-length brown hair. Due to the state of decomposition, no identification could be made and he remained unidentified for 44 years.
In 2007, the remains were exhumed by Cold Case Unit investigators, for the purpose of attempting a facial reconstruction and to obtain DNA. The following year, a DNA profile was developed and uploaded to the national DNA database, however, there were no matches
In 2021, investigators turned to Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG), which resulted in investigators identifying relatives of the deceased. On April 3, 2023, the deceased was identified as William Joseph PENNELL, 26, from the City of Toronto.
Investigators then began to build a profile of PENNELL. He spent time in several correctional institutions for a variety of criminal offences. On June 30, 1979, while on parole, PENNELL was arrested and charged with armed robbery and attempted murder. Due to his parole violation, he was immediately incarcerated at the Collins Bay Institution in the City of Kingston. PENNELL told his case officers that there were at least two other persons involved in the attempted robbery. He admitted to his role in the crime, but refused to implicate the other suspects involved, believing his life would be in danger.
In April 1980, PENNELL was convicted of the robbery. Two months later, on June 13, 1980, he escaped from prison. To date, no detailed records related to the escape have been found. PENNELL told a friend he intended to flee to South America in what is believed to be his last contact before his death.
A month following his escape, PENNELL’s remains were found in Markham on July 16, 1980. The cause of death was undetermined, however investigators believe foul play was involved.
The investigation is ongoing as Cold Case Unit investigators work to identify additional friends and associates to build a timeline between PENNELL’s escape and when his body was found. They are hoping the public’s assistance can help solve this decades-old case.
Further details of this case will be featured in ‘Tracking a Killer: The Cold Case Files’ airing on Friday, November 15, 2024.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cold Case Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6000 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
Prepared by: Constable Lisa Moskaluk
80-13437
November 1, 2024
