Man wanted for 2 unprovoked incidents in downtown Toronto on Christmas Eve

Toronto police are searching for a suspect who allegedly choked a female in downtown Toronto then threatened an employee at a business with a hammer.

Both incidents, which police said occurred without provocation, happened in the downtown core on Dec. 24.

The first one occurred near Queen Street West and University Avenue.

Toronto Police Service (TPS) said they were called to that area just before 5:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a suspect who had approached a female on the streets and choked her.

Investigators allege at 6:50p.m. that same day, the same individual attended a business near Yonge Street and Wellesley Stret East, brandished a hammer, and threatened an employee at a store. The suspect then stole several items and fled the area, TPS said.

Byron Johnson, 36, of no fixed address is wanted for assault/choking and robbery with a weapon.

He is described as six-feet-tall and 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

Johnson was last seen wearing a black winter jacket, a white sweater with the hood up, khaki pants, and white shoes, and carrying a brown backpack.

Police are advising anyone who locates this wanted individual to not approach him, but instead call 9-11 immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to contact TPS at 416-808-5200 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.