The wider picture
In a significant development, Daniel Tomassetti was arrested in Mexico on August 1, 2025. Tomassetti, who had been on the run for nearly nine years, is wanted in connection with the murders of Mila Barberi and Angelo Musitano, both of whom were shot dead in 2017. The arrest marks a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn considerable attention from law enforcement agencies in Canada.
Mila Barberi was tragically killed outside a Vaughan business on March 14, 2017, when she was just 28 years old. Angelo Musitano, aged 39 at the time of his death, was shot dead shortly thereafter on May 2, 2017. The violent nature of these crimes has left a lasting impact on the victims’ families and the community, prompting a lengthy investigation that ultimately led to Tomassetti being placed on Canada’s most wanted list.
Following the murders, Tomassetti fled to Cancun, Mexico, in January 2018, evading capture by leaving his phone at home to avoid police surveillance. The Hamilton Police had issued a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of the situation. Despite having no prior criminal record, Tomassetti now faces multiple serious charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted murder, and three counts of conspiracy to commit murder.
York Regional Police confirmed that Tomassetti is currently being detained in Mexico, and an extradition order is being sought. “He is being detained and an extradition order is being sought,” stated a representative from York Regional Police. This process will require Canada to provide sufficient evidence to justify his extradition under Mexican law, as explained by legal expert Jeff Hershberg.
Detective Sergeant Jason Cattle emphasized the ongoing emotional toll on the Barberi family, stating, “The Barberi family, this is something that is still ongoing for them and always will for the rest of their lives, and there’s one person that’s still outstanding that was involved in their daughter’s murder.” This sentiment underscores the importance of bringing Tomassetti to justice and providing closure to the victims’ families.
As the extradition process unfolds, officials have indicated that further details may be limited. Jackie Penman from the police department remarked, “At this time, we are not in a position to provide additional details beyond what has already been shared.” This leaves some uncertainties regarding the timeline and specifics of the extradition.
Tomassetti’s case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in international law enforcement and the challenges faced in bringing fugitives to justice. Observers are keenly watching how this situation will develop, particularly regarding the legal proceedings that will follow his extradition back to Canada.
With the arrest of Daniel Tomassetti, the hope remains that justice will be served for the families of Mila Barberi and Angelo Musitano, and that the legal system will address the serious charges he faces.
