Glensbert Oliver, 63, was fatally stabbed and his 40-year-old son was wounded as they attempted to stop several suspects breaking into vehicles in Brampton, Peel police said Friday.

"It's completely senseless," acting Supt. Martin Ottaway told reporters from the scene near Castlemore Road and Lanebrook Drive.

"It was completely unnecessary for it to have escalated to this point."

Officers were first called to the area at 2:21 a.m., Ottaway said.

As many as five males were committing "minor property offences" in the residential neighbourhood, he said, later clarifying that they were stealing items from vehicles.

Glensbert Oliver was stabbed to death outside of a residence on Lanebrook Drive in Brampton. (Peel Regional Police)

Oliver and his son confronted the suspects and they were both stabbed.

All five suspects, described as males in their late teens to early 20s, then fled the area in a black SUV, Ottaway said.

Oliver was pronounced dead at the scene. His son was taken to hospital for treatment and has since been released.

'Property can be replaced'

The Peel police homicide unit has taken over the investigation.

Officers canvassing the neighbourhood collected "several key pieces" of security video, Ottaway said. He encouraged all five males to get a lawyer and turn themselves in.

"It's only a matter of time before arrests are made," he said.

Any one with information is asked to contact police or to leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers.

Ottaway reminded residents to call police if they witness a crime in progress.

"Property can be replaced," he said. "Obviously, lives cannot."