Toronto Family Shattered by Home Invasion, 911 Call on Hold

URGENT UPDATE: A Toronto mother is reeling after a harrowing home invasion that unfolded in her dream home on October 29, 2023. Maryam Alavinasab, who moved to Canada from Iran seven years ago, is now facing the nightmare of feeling unsafe in her own residence, compounded by an alarming delay in 911 response.

At approximately 3:40 AM, Alavinasab was awakened by armed intruders in her home near York Mills Road and Leslie Street. Surveillance video shows four masked men forcing their way through the rear patio doors, undeterred by a warning that the area was under surveillance. Alavinasab recalls the terror of waking up to two men standing over her, with one pressing a gun to her neck, demanding, “where is the safe?”

“I can’t live here anymore,” Alavinasab admitted through tears, describing how the home she renovated with love now haunts her. In a desperate attempt to protect her daughters, aged 12 and 18, she remained calm while the suspects searched for valuables. Within six minutes, the assailants fled with stolen handbags, jewelry, and cash.

In a distressing turn, Alavinasab’s eldest daughter managed to call 911 during the ordeal, locking herself in the bathroom. However, she was put on hold for several minutes, a situation Alavinasab believes could have endangered their lives. “If they shoot me, I will die,” she expressed, questioning why emergency callers are left waiting during critical moments.

“My daughter, at 3:40 AM, why does she have to be on the line?”

Toronto Police have confirmed that the 911 call was answered at 3:43 AM, with officers dispatched shortly thereafter. The police arrived at 3:49 AM, only to find the suspects had already fled. In a statement, police spokesperson Stephanie Sayer emphasized that no one should have to wait to report an emergency, noting that the average wait time that day was just 6 seconds.

Despite the police’s arrival, Alavinasab expressed frustration over the lack of support from authorities following the incident. “Since the day of the home invasion, I have not heard from police or anyone to offer help,” she lamented, highlighting her fears and the emotional toll it has taken on her family.

Alavinasab, who had worked tirelessly to create a safe and welcoming environment for her daughters, now feels betrayed by the very system meant to protect them. “I moved here for a better life, for a safer life,” she said, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions. “I don’t feel safe anymore.”

The Toronto Police have indicated that they are aware of the distressing nature of this incident and have offered Victim Services support to the family. Sayer added that investigators will be following up directly to ensure the family has the necessary support and information they need.

As this story develops, the Alavinasab family’s plight raises urgent questions about emergency response protocols and community safety. The emotional impact of this invasion will resonate deeply within the community, leaving many residents questioning their safety in their own homes.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities many face and the critical importance of timely emergency response. The community watches closely as further developments unfold in this alarming case.