Man charged in unprovoked assault in Oshawa that left victim in life-threatening condition

Police are on the scene of an assault in Oshawa on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (CTV News)

A man has been charged in connection with an unprovoked assault in Oshawa Monday night that left another man in life-threatening condition.

Durham police said information from witnesses suggests the victim was crossing the street in the area of Ritson Road North and Taunton Road East when the suspect approached from behind and began assaulting him.

The victim did not know the suspect, police said.

Shortly after, officers arrived and found the victim with critical injuries. He was subsequently taken to a Toronto trauma centre.

Police said the suspect was located nearby and arrested. He has been identified as 33-year-old Dwayne Wallen of Oshawa.

He is facing an aggravated assault charge.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2765 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).