TORONTO—Two men were killed and four other people were wounded after gunfire erupted near Toronto's annual Salsa on St. Clair street festival, police said, prompting panic among thousands of attendees before authorities determined the incident was a targeted exchange of gunfire rather than an indiscriminate attack.
Toronto Police said officers responded shortly after 8 p.m. on Saturday to reports of an active shooter near the intersection of St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue. The initial warning was later withdrawn after investigators concluded that two individuals had exchanged gunfire while targeting each other. Authorities said the area was secured, although no arrests had been announced as of Sunday.
Deputy Chief Frank Barredo told a late-night news conference that investigators recovered two firearms from the scene and were examining multiple crime scenes as they reviewed surveillance footage and interviewed witnesses. Police said the motive remained under investigation and urged anyone with video or information to contact investigators.
The shooting occurred during the popular Salsa on St. Clair festival, an annual celebration of Latin American music, dance and culture that attracts thousands of visitors. Police estimated about 13,000 people were attending when shots rang out, sending festival-goers running for cover amid the confusion.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the violence and said the city would support police as they pursued those responsible. Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he was "devastated by the senseless violence" and extended condolences to the victims, their families and everyone affected. Prime Minister Mark Carney also expressed sympathy for those impacted and thanked emergency responders for their work.
Festival organizers cancelled the event's final day, saying the decision was made because of the ongoing police investigation. In a public statement, organizers said their thoughts were with the families of those killed, the injured and everyone affected by the shooting.
Police said four people remained hospitalized with serious gunshot wounds. Authorities stressed there was no indication of an ongoing threat to the public but said investigators continued to search for those involved and asked witnesses to come forward as the investigation remained active.
