Peel regional police have charged a 16-year-old boy with second-degree murder in the stabbing death of a Brampton man who tried to stop a group of males from breaking into his car.

On August 2, police say up to five males were breaking into vehicles on Lanebrook Drive near Castlemore Road and Goreway Drive.

At around 2 a.m., Glensbert Oliver, 63, and his son, confronted the group.

“Mr. Oliver and his son had exited their residence and found one of the suspects was in their vehicles,” Acting Inspector Michael Pulley said on Friday.

Both men were stabbed in the ensuing confrontation. Oliver died at the scene, while his son was treated at hospital for non life-threatening injuries.

All five suspects fled in a stolen dark-coloured SUV that was later recovered.

On Thursday, Peel police executed a series of search warrants in the Toronto area, arresting four males — two youths, and two 18-year-old men.

The 16-year-old is facing charges of second-degree murder, attempted murder and other property related offences. He’s also charged with breach of a court order.

A 17-year-old is charged with possession of property obtained by crime and fail to comply with recognizance.

Two 18-year-old men are facing charges of possession of property obtained by crime and fail to comply with recognizance.

A fifth suspect, who police believe remained in the vehicle during the alleged crimes, remains at large. Police are urging him to contact a lawyer and turn himself in.

When asked why murder charges weren’t extended to the three other men charged on Thursday, Pulley said the investigation is ongoing and he didn’t rule out charges potentially being upgraded.

All four suspects made court appearances on Friday and are being held for bail hearings.

“The loss of Sam Oliver is tragic, it is heartfelt not only to the family, but to the community,” Pulley said.

Pulley advised citizens not to confront suspects if they witness a property crime in progress.

“Our approach would be call 911,” he said. “It’s not worth it to approach somebody … property can always be replaced, but people can’t.”