Almost 27 years after Donna Oglive was killed in downtown Toronto, police have arrested a suspect in connection to the 1998 murder.
The Toronto Police Service (TPS) announced the development in the cold case on Friday.
Authorities said Ronald Gordon Ackerman, 50, of Gander, N.L., was arrested at Toronto Pearson Airport on Thursday in connection to Oglive's murder.
He was identified by police following a genetic genealogy investigation that was launched in 2022. The testing was conducted using male DNA found at the scene of the crime.
Ackerman has been charged with first degree murder.
Prior to this week, Oglive's murder was considered a cold case.
The British Columbia resident had been visiting Toronto for five weeks when she was found dead on March 8, 1998. Toronto police discovered Oglive's body in a rear parking lot of 130 Carlton St.
Oglive's cause of death was determined to be strangulation.
After her death, police revealed that Oglive was about four months pregnant when she was killed.
Since 1998, TPS' Homicide and Missing Persons Unit have been actively investigating the case.
“For 26 years, investigators have remained committed to seeking justice for Donna and her loved ones. Advances in forensic technology, along with the unwavering dedication of our team and investigative partners, have led us to this arrest,” said Det. Sgt. Steve Smith.
“Our thoughts remain with Donna’s family and friends, who have endured decades of grief and unanswered questions," he continued. "No matter how much time passes, we do not give up on victims of homicide.”
Ackerman is currently in police custody. He appeared via video link at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on Thursday.
The Edmonton Police Service, Calgary Police Service, Alberta RCMP and Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP collaborated in the investigation.
Anyone with information has been asked to contact police at 416-808-7400 or to submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers online or at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
