Canada shooting: Two killed, several injured in firing at Toronto festival
Toronto Police initially warned the public about an active shooter and asked people to stay away from the area. Later, officers confirmed that the scene had been secured, but said the suspect or suspects were still at large.
PTC News Desk: Two people were killed and five others injured in a shooting near a street festival in Toronto on Saturday, police said. The incident took place near St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue, where the popular Salsa on St. Clair Festival was being held.
Toronto Police initially warned the public about an active shooter and asked people to stay away from the area. Later, officers confirmed that the scene had been secured, but said the suspect or suspects were still at large.
Valerie Rodriguez said she was sitting next to a restaurant on Saturday night when she saw people screaming and running.
“A bunch of people told us to lay down onto the floor,” she said. “We got scared because we didn’t know exactly what was happening.”
A heavy police presence remained around the festival, an annual event celebrating Latin American culture with live music, dance, food and performances that attracts thousands of visitors.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed grief over the incident, calling it "senseless violence." In a post on social media, he said he was deeply saddened by the loss of life and offered his condolences to the victims, their families and everyone affected.
Toronto is considered one of the safest major cities in North America, and deadly public shootings involving multiple victims are uncommon.