Suspect Charged in Kidnapping as Police Continue Search for Missing Markham Woman

Police in York Region have charged a suspect in the ongoing search for Ying Zhang, a woman who disappeared under suspicious circumstances on July 25. Changlin Yang, a 26-year-old resident of East Gwillimbury, Ontario, faces charges of kidnapping, forcible confinement, and aggravated assault.

Ying Zhang, 57, was last seen around 10:40 a.m. near Woodbine Avenue and Steelcase Road in Markham, north of Steeles Avenue East. Zhang, described as five-foot-seven with a medium build and straight, shoulder-length black and grey hair, was wearing blue scrubs and a jade bracelet on her left hand at the time of her disappearance.

Zhang, who worked at a wellness centre in a commercial plaza in the area, was reported missing by her family that evening after failing to return home from work. Police have expressed concern for her wellbeing, citing evidence of an assault and the absence of medical treatment.

York Regional Police (YRP) released images of a suspect vehicle, a white Ford van with licence plate BZ43851, seen in the area at the time of Zhang’s disappearance. The vehicle was later spotted in the Village of Kirkfield, in the City of Kawartha Lakes, on the afternoon of July 25. A suspect was observed with a large green wheeled bin near the van.

While police have not confirmed any relationship between Zhang and Yang, they believe the incident was targeted. Yang is currently in custody, but authorities have not ruled out the involvement of additional suspects.

Investigators continue to canvass for witnesses and information. Anyone with details about Zhang’s disappearance is urged to contact YRP’s homicide unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7865, or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.