Alleged ‘Crossbow Killer’ Accused of Murdering His Mother, Two Brothers

Toronto's so-called crossbow killer Brett Ryan is accused of murdering his family, including his mother and two brothers.

The victims, Susan, Christopher, and Alexander Ryan, according to the Toronto Star, were found dead outside a Scarborough home Thursday. They were named in court Tuesday morning following the removal of a publication ban.

Brett Ryan, 35, has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder and will remain in police custody at least until a Sept. 2 court appearance.

On Monday, Toronto police said Susan Ryan was strangled to death, while both Christopher and Alexander Ryan were stabbed in the neck, one with a crossbow bolt and the other with a head of an arrow. A fourth male victim was treated for injuries and released. Speaking to the Star, a neighbour said Susan Ryan had four sons, two of whom lived in the Lawndale Road home where the attacks took place. Police have not said whether the crossbow was actually loaded with arrows and shot, or if they were simply used as stabbing tools. All three were found outside the house—Susan Ryan and one of her sons inside the garage and the other son on the driveway. It is not clear whether the crossbow belonged to Brett Ryan, who lived in a downtown condo, or someone at the house.

Brett Ryan, engaged to be married in mid September, has a lengthy criminal record. Known as the "Fake Beard Bandit," he pleaded guilty in 2009 to several counts of robbery, and disguise with intent to commit an indictable offence, tied to a bank robbery spree in the Greater Toronto Area; he reportedly wore a fake beard and bandages on his face while carrying out the heists.

Following the convictions, Brett Ryan was prohibited from owning weapons for a decade, the CBC reports.

Police have said the attack was connected to a suspicious package found in Brett Ryan's apartment downtown Thursday. After finding the package, authorities evacuated the area.

Police have said they have strong evidence that the killings were premeditated.

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