Suspect wanted for attempted murder in East Gwillimbury shooting: YRP

Andrew Joseph Pitre is pictured in this image distributed by York Regional Police. (Handout /YRP)

York Regional Police say they are searching for a suspect wanted for attempted murder in connection with a motel shooting in East Gwillimbury on New Year’s Day.

Officers were called to a motel in the area of Yonge Street and Queensville Sideroad at around 9:45 p.m. for a report about a shooting.

They arrived to find a 24-year-old man suffering from gunshot wounds.

The victim was taken to a trauma centre to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries, police said. He has since been released from hospital.

In a news release issued Friday, police said they are now searching for 33-year-old Andrew Joseph Pitre of King Township in connection with the shooting. Police said Pitre is wanted for attempted murder and firearms-related offences.

Investigators have not been able to find him so far and are now releasing an image as part of an appeal to the public for tips.

“Pitre is considered armed and dangerous. If seen, citizens are urged not to approach him but to call police immediately,” YRP said in their release. “The accused is encouraged to seek legal advice and turn himself in.”

Police are asking anyone with information about Pitre’s whereabouts to contact them or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously.