Peter Elie, hard-working Toronto DJ/VJ who worked under the name Blue Peter. He was found dead after a fire in the laundry room of his midtown Toronto apartment building. He lived at 155 Balliol Street. He had been murdered, and the killer attempted to cover up the crime with a fire.
Elie, 52, had been a VJ at Woody’s, a popular bar in the Gay Village, since 1998. Elie’s Monday-night shows included top 40 videos and all-time favourites . Elie also often closed the bar during Pride Week festivities. In a 2009 interview, Elie said, “I’ve enjoyed it very much and am looking forward to bringing another such creative and musical set as I have every year. I want to wish everyone a safe and happy Pride Week.”
A fire alarm had sounded in the building, and the responders found smoke in the lobby and laundry area. Elie was found in the 2nd floor laundry room with obvious signs of trauma. Despite life-saving efforts, Elie could not be revived. Police were notified and it was quickly handed over to Homicide.
Detectives went door-to-door in the building appealing for witnesses. The next day, Toronto Police released a photograph of the potential suspect. He is wearing a dark jacket with red and black checkered pajamas.
“The 519 grieves with our Church Street community this evening after learning of the loss of Peter Elie. DJ Blue Peter was the heart and soul of many of our gathering spaces for over 20 years, where he shared his passion for music and bringing our communities together,” the 519 Church Street Community Centre said on social media.
A homeless man, Rico Harvey, with no known association to Elie, has been arrested and charged with second degree murder.
Murder Village Map
Vital Statistics
Name: Peter Elie
Age: 52
Gender: Male
Date of Death: May 14, 2020
Manner of Death: Not yet determined
Location: 155 Balliol Street
Suspect Name: Rico Harvey
Conviction & Sentence: Pending