At least two people were killed in a shooting that took place on St Clair Avenue, mid‑town Toronto, during the annual Salsa on St Clair Latin festival.
Police received reports of an active shooter at approximately 20:12 local time and arrived to find six victims with gunshot wounds, two of whom were pronounced dead at the scene.
An exchange of gunfire between two individuals was reported and two firearms were recovered from the site. No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing.
Toronto Deputy Police Chief Francisco Barredo described the scene as “very chaotic” and noted the presence of about 13,000 festival attendees when the shooting occurred. He said police were managing three separate crime scenes and would provide updates as information becomes available.
The Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “horrified” by the shooting and offered prayers to families grieving, those in critical condition, and everyone affected. Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the “senseless violence” and called for the perpetrator to be brought to justice.
St Clair Avenue, lined with shops and restaurants, hosted its 22nd annual salsa festival, featuring live music and dance performances. Authorities urged anyone with information, including witness statements, to call police.
