What should have been a night of music, dancing and celebration in Toronto ended in tragedy after gunfire erupted at a packed street festival.
At least two people were killed and several others were injured.
The shooting broke out shortly after 8:00pm local time during the annual Salsa on St Clair festival, where police estimate around 13,000 people had gathered.
Officers arrived to find six people suffering from gunshot wounds, with two victims pronounced dead at the scene.
Deputy Police Chief Francisco Barredo described the aftermath as “very chaotic.”
Investigators believe two individuals exchanged gunfire in the middle of the festival.
Police recovered two firearms and are now examining three separate crime scenes, though no arrests have been made.
Festival Shooting Investigated
Authorities are urging witnesses and anyone with video footage to come forward as investigators work to identify those responsible.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “horrified” by the attack, offering condolences to the victims’ families.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the “senseless violence,” insisting the gunman “must be caught, brought to justice and spend the rest of their life behind bars.”
The annual festival, now in its 22nd year, has long been a symbol of Toronto’s vibrant multicultural community. But this year’s celebration serves as
