A shadow of violence stretches across two cities, linking a recent fatal stabbing in Oshawa to a December murder in Peterborough. The investigation has revealed a disturbing connection between the victims and the accused, painting a picture of a volatile and dangerous situation.
The Oshawa tragedy unfolded early Tuesday morning, around 4:15 a.m., when police responded to a call on Park Rd. S. and John St. A man lay wounded on the roadway, suffering from life-threatening stab injuries.
Jeremy Russell, 44, was rushed to a Toronto trauma centre, but succumbed to his injuries, becoming Durham Region’s ninth homicide victim of the year. The investigation quickly focused on two suspects, leading to a charge of second-degree murder against Nicholas Robbins, 33, of Oshawa.
Authorities are now urgently seeking Michael Waterman, 44, of Peterborough, also wanted for second-degree murder in connection with the Oshawa stabbing. This wasn’t Waterman’s first brush with a murder investigation; he was already a person of interest in a Peterborough case.
Just weeks prior, on December 6th, Peterborough Police discovered a 33-year-old man with critical head injuries inside an apartment on Brock St. He died at the scene, and Waterman was quickly identified as a suspect in that homicide as well.
The Peterborough investigation saw swift action, with Peter Pople, 28, arrested and charged with second-degree murder on December 18th. Later that same day, Kaya Coughlin, 29, was apprehended and charged with manslaughter.
A fourth individual, Dominick Rivers, 32, was also arrested and faces charges of accessory after the fact to murder, alongside several driving offences related to the case. The web of connections between these individuals is now under intense scrutiny.
Police warn that Waterman should be considered armed and dangerous and advise the public not to approach him. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact 911 immediately.
Investigators are appealing directly to Waterman, urging him to seek legal counsel and surrender to authorities. They have also issued a stern warning: anyone found to be aiding Waterman in evading capture will face prosecution.
Those with information about either the Oshawa or Peterborough incidents – including cellphone footage, dashcam recordings, or surveillance videos – are encouraged to contact Detective Green at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5319, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
