Two people were killed and at least five others were injured during a mass shooting at Toronto’s Salsa on St. Clair street festival Saturday evening.
In a social media post shared at 8:20 p.m., Toronto police issued a warning to the public about an active shooter at the site of the festival near St. Clair and Arlington Avenues.
Police say a total of seven people were found with gunshot wounds and two people were pronounced dead at the scene.
Footage obtained by CityNews shows paramedics performing life-saving measures on at least one victim within a large crowd of spectators.
Authorities were able to secure the scene shortly after 9 p.m., and have cordoned off several blocks of St. Clair Avenue.
Police have not announced any arrests or shared how many suspects they are looking for.
“A large police presence remains in the area as officers continue their investigation,” police wrote in an update. “Please continue to avoid the area and follow directions from emergency personnel.”
Witnesses tell CityNews they heard multiple gun shots followed by screams from crowds of people who were running for cover.
In a press conference held at the crime scene Saturday evening Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said she was “disturbed” and “angry” by news of the shooting.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford wrote in a social media post Saturday evening that he was “devastated by the senseless violence at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival.”
“My thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected,” he added. “Thank you to Toronto Police and our first responders for responding to this horrific incident. The person responsible must be caught, brought to justice and spend the rest of their life behind bars.”
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also issued a statement saying that he was “shocked” to hear of the shooting.
“Our prayers are with the families of the two individuals who passed away, and we hope for a full recovery for those injured,” he wrote in a social media post. “May the police find the monster responsible for this innocent loss of life and bring them to justice.”
Police receive reports of an active shooter near St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue
Police advising the public to stay away from the area
Festival vendors begin shutting down booths
Police say 5 people located with gunshot wounds, 2 people pronounced dead
Police say they have secured the area
Police say 6 people located with gunshot wounds
Ontario Premier Doug Ford issues a statement addressing the mass shooting
Police say 7 people located with gunshot wounds
Police hold a press conference alongside Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow
