Gunfire Strikes US Consulate in Toronto Again, Prompting Police Chase
Second Shooting Incident at US Consulate
On Monday, the US Consulate located in downtown Toronto was the target of gunfire for the second time this year, leading to a high-speed police chase involving a fleeing white sedan. As reported by local media, an officer on routine patrol near the consulate, which had increased security following a previous shooting on March 10, heard gunshots around 4:45 a.m.
Toronto Police Deputy Chief Frank Barredo stated that the officer witnessed a white Honda Accord without license plates speeding away from the scene. Officers initiated a brief pursuit along the Don Valley Parkway near Don Mills Road but had to terminate the chase due to safety concerns as the vehicle exceeded speeds of 140 km/h. Aerial support was not available during this incident.
Deputy Chief Barredo characterized the shooting as "brazen" and "despicable," emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. Police found a single shell casing near the consulate and noted damage to the building's facade, although no injuries were reported.
A spokesperson for the US embassy expressed gratitude to the Toronto police for their swift response. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the shooting and the number of individuals in the fleeing vehicle. Toronto Police spokesperson Stephanie Sayer mentioned that the department is currently utilizing helicopters from the Ontario Provincial Police or Durham Regional Police Service, with plans to acquire its own aircraft later this year.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow addressed the media, stating she had discussions with Canada's Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, about strategies to combat gun violence and the influx of illegal firearms in the city. Mayor Chow described the shooting as a "brazen attack," noting that it occurred in front of a police cruiser with flashing lights. "To the person or persons responsible: We will find you," she asserted.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is working alongside Toronto police and international partners on the investigation. RCMP Superintendent Jonathan Ko stated, "Threats and violence towards any individuals in Canada are taken very seriously." This incident marks the second shooting at the consulate in just over four months, following a similar event in March that also resulted in no injuries. The March incident was classified as a "national security incident" by the RCMP, leading to the arrest of three individuals as part of a broader investigation into local gun crimes involving youth.
While University Avenue was temporarily closed off with numerous police vehicles present, Toronto Police spokesperson Ashley Visser confirmed that the scene has since been cleared and the road has reopened.