Receptionist at Toronto Law Firm Succumbs to Death from Stab Wounds After Business Attacked by Suspect, Police Say

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A 29-year-old woman who was stabbed at a Toronto law office has died in hospital and a 33-year-old man in custody now stands accused of her murder, according to police.

Just before 2 p.m. on Thursday, police said 2 males entered 238 King Street East, the offices of Hicks Adams LLP, a law company specializing in criminal defence.


Julia Ferguson suffered a critical stab wound and was rushed to a hospital trauma center without vital signs.

A GoFundMe set up by Ferguson’s friends says she worked as a receptionist at Hicks Adams and “was attacked and stabbed in the chest.”

“The stab wound to her chest resulted in a puncture wound to her heart leaving her without vital signs upon paramedics arrival,” some friends wrote on the GoFundMe page. “Due to Julia’s strength the paramedics were able to resuscitate her and she was rushed to the hospital.”

They said the woman suffered oxygen loss because of her attack, which made recovery unlikely.

On Sunday, Ferguson was taken off life support and passed away in hospital.

“She leaves behind a mother, brother, boyfriend, family and many friends who will miss her dearly,” the GoFundMe message says. “If you were blessed to know Julia you know what a beautiful and kind hearted soul she was.”

Officers said a suspect fled the scene and later surrendered to police.

His name is Osman Osman of Toronto.

“This attack was not random,” Det. Sgt. Tiffany Castell said Monday while updating the case.

Castell said the suspect was targeting the business during the attack and not Ferguson.

“The business itself was certainly the target,” she said.

Castell would not provide additional information about what could have led to the stabbing.

Osman was initially charged with aggravated assault and attempted murder, and investigators claim those charges will be upgraded because of the woman’s health.

Fergusson becomes the province’s 55th homicide victim of the year.