A Oshawa stabbing suspect arrested after a month-long search has been taken into custody following a brief foot chase. William Taylor Hayes, 24, of Oshawa, was located by Durham Regional Police on March 26, 2026, exactly one month after the incident that left a man with stab wounds in downtown Oshawa.
The stabbing occurred on the night of February 26, 2026, at approximately 10:40 p.m. near Celina Street and Bruce Street. The victim was approached by three individuals who began a verbal altercation, which escalated into a physical confrontation. During the altercation, one of the suspects, later identified as William Hayes, allegedly stabbed the victim. The suspects then fled the scene, and the victim was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Following the incident, Durham Regional Police launched an investigation into the stabbing. Despite their efforts, the suspect remained at large for a month. Police worked diligently to gather evidence and identify the suspect, ultimately leading them to William Taylor Hayes. The police located him on March 26, and after a brief foot pursuit, Hayes was arrested without further incident.
Hayes faces several charges, including aggravated assault, aggravated assault with a weapon, and possession of a dangerous weapon. Additionally, he is charged with two breaches of probation. It was revealed that Hayes was already under a weapons prohibition at the time of the stabbing, which further complicates the situation.
The arrest of William Hayes was a relief to the Oshawa community and to the victim, who has since recovered from his injuries. The investigation is ongoing, and police are still seeking additional information from anyone who may have witnessed the altercation or has information about the events leading up to the stabbing.
Oshawa Police Chief praised the efforts of the investigators, noting that the swift apprehension of Hayes is a testament to the hard work and determination of the officers involved. He also highlighted the importance of community cooperation in solving such cases and encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
During a press conference at the Oshawa Police Station, Durham Regional Police appealed to the public for assistance. They encouraged anyone with relevant details to contact D/Cst. Armstrong of the Central East Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2741. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
William Taylor Hayes was held for a bail hearing, and the legal process will determine the outcome of the charges against him. As of now, the investigation remains open, and further developments are expected as authorities continue to gather information related to the stabbing.
Ongoing Investigation
The Oshawa stabbing suspect arrested marks an important step forward in this case, but the investigation into the broader circumstances surrounding the altercation continues. Authorities are working to determine the motives behind the incident and whether other individuals were involved in the planning or execution of the attack.
Conclusion
The Oshawa stabbing suspect arrested is a key development in a case that rocked the local community. With William Taylor Hayes now in custody, the residents of Oshawa can feel a sense of justice and security knowing that the suspect is no longer on the loose. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with violent confrontations and the importance of maintaining safety protocols in high-risk situations.
