Gunfire erupted at the TD Salsa on St. Clair Festival in Toronto, resulting in at least two fatalities and multiple injuries, prompting an ongoing police investigation.
At least two people were killed and four others injured following a shooting at the TD Salsa on St. Clair Festival in Midtown Toronto. The incident occurred on Saturday night, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Toronto Police Service reported receiving calls about gunfire at St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue at approximately 8:12 p.m. local time. Upon arrival, first responders discovered an active shooter situation, with six individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Tragically, two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and police have indicated that the suspect or suspects are still at large. No arrests had been made as of Saturday evening. Toronto Police Deputy Chief Frank Barredo addressed the media, stating that there appeared to be an “exchange of gunfire” between two individuals who were targeting each other.
“This is a very chaotic scene,” Barredo remarked, noting that the festival had drawn approximately 13,000 attendees. Initially, police characterized the incident as an active shooter situation; however, they later clarified that this was not the case.
<p”There was some concern of an active shooter. That turned out not to be the case,” Barredo explained. He added that authorities were managing three separate crime scenes related to the shooting and confirmed that two firearms had been recovered.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his horror at the incident, stating, “My prayers are with the families grieving their loved ones, those who are in critical condition, and everyone who has been affected by this horrific event.” He also extended his gratitude to the police officers and first responders for their courage and swift actions, which he said helped prevent further tragedy.
In light of the shooting, the Toronto Transit Commission temporarily suspended train stops at the nearby St. Clair West station on Line 1 Yonge-University, citing a “security incident.” Regular transit service has since resumed.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area and to adhere to all directives from police on the scene. The TD Salsa on St. Clair Festival, which is Toronto’s largest celebration of Latin culture, was celebrating its 22nd annual event in Hillcrest Village at the time of the shooting.
The Toronto Police Service has stated that no further information is available at this time, as their investigation continues.
According to Fox News, the community is in shock as they grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event.