A U.S. fugitive wanted for manslaughter was arrested in Toronto after years of living openly as a psychic and trivia host. Extradition proceedings underway.
Double Life Exposed: U.S. Fugitive Arrested in Toronto After Years as Local Psychic
A Shocking Arrest in the Heart of Toronto
For years, Toronto residents unknowingly crossed paths with a man living a double life. Patrick Lutts Jr., wanted in Florida for a fatal drunk-driving crash, was finally arrested in downtown Toronto after more than two decades on the run.
From Tragedy in Florida to a New Identity in Canada
Lutts, now 51, vanished after skipping a plea hearing in 2003 for a Christmas Day crash in Orlando that killed two teenagers. Instead of facing justice, he resurfaced in Toronto, adopting the persona of “Pat Lighthelp,” a self-proclaimed psychic offering relationship advice and life coaching online.
Hiding in Plain Sight
Far from keeping a low profile, Lutts built a vibrant social life. He hosted horror-themed trivia nights at a local bar, went skiing, attended concerts, and mingled with friends-none of whom suspected his dark past. Online, he charged clients for psychic readings, claiming to provide “direct insight and clarity to matters of the heart”.
The Tip That Ended His Run
Lutts’ secret life unraveled after an anonymous tip to Florida authorities in late 2023 suggested he might be in Canada. Surveillance led Toronto police to his high-rise apartment in the Church and Wellesley area, where he was arrested in February 2025 under the Canadian Extradition Act.
Legal Questions and Lingering Grief
It remains unclear how Lutts entered Canada, as he has no legal status and no record of entry. Meanwhile, the families of the victims-19-year-old Nancy Lopez and 18-year-old Darvin Javier DeJesus-Taboada-have waited decades for justice. “If he doesn’t get justice here, God’s going to punish this guy,” Lopez’s mother said years ago.
What’s Next for Lutts?
With extradition proceedings underway, Florida prosecutors are working to bring Lutts back to face manslaughter charges. Canada’s Justice Department has declined to comment, while the Toronto community reels from the revelation that a trusted psychic and trivia host was, in fact, a long-sought fugitive.
