Investigators have received more than 1,500 tips since the body of 42-year-old Sonia Varaschin was found in Caledon on Sept. 5, 2010. Photo: Ontario Provincial Police

WARNING: This story contains details and images related to violence against women that may be disturbing to some readers.

It may have been 16 years since she was found dead north of Brampton, but investigators say the hunt is still on for the killer of Sonia Varaschin – a nurse who police say was the target of a violent attack.

Varaschin was 42-years-old when her white Toyota Corolla was found abandoned on Broadway in downtown Orangeville on Aug. 30, 2010.

Investigators found blood on the rear trunk area of her vehicle, and when police went to check on Varaschin at her home they discovered evidence of “a violent event” – police say there was “a great deal of blood” inside the home as well as on the front step.

That discovery kicked off days of searches that ended when a man walking his dog discovered her remains in a wooded area just off Beech Grove Sideroad in Caledon.

“Sonia was targeted, however, she may have not known who did this to her, but they knew who she was,” Det. Insp. Shawn Glassford of the OPP said in a video statement in 2023.

Investigators found blood on the rear trunk area of her vehicle, and when police went to check on Varaschin at her home they discovered evidence of ‘a violent event.’ (Photo: OPP)

The province is offering a $50,000 reward for any information that can lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Varaschin’s murder.

“We have never wavered in our search to find Sonia’s killer,” Glassford said in an update on Friday (Aug. 4). “Our determination remains as strong today as it was when this investigation began. Investigators continue to review information and follow up on leads. Someone knows the truth. It’s time to come forward.”

Police say there was ‘a great deal of blood’ inside Varaschin’s home, as well as on the front step. (Photo: OPP)

Investigators say her body was found in poor condition and that heat and moisture have an impact on DNA evidence, but a “minor male profile” was able to be recovered.

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That sample has been called “weak” by police, but investigators are hopeful that new developments in DNA technology will help lead to a break in the case.

Anyone with information about this case can contact the OPP by calling 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips may also be provided to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca. When you contact Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.


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