Toronto: Toronto’s streets were alive with music and dance on Saturday night as the ‘Salsa on St. Clair’ festival drew large crowds. People were enjoying food, children were dancing, and the celebrations were in full swing when gunshots suddenly rang out, turning the festive atmosphere into chaos. The shooting on St. Clair Avenue left two people dead and six others injured, all of whom are receiving treatment in hospital. Police are continuing their search for the suspect, who remains at large.
When and where did the firing take place?
All this happened at around 8:12 pm. Toronto police received a call about an “active shooter” on St Clair Avenue. By the time the police arrived, there was chaos there. People had fallen on the ground. Police declared two people dead on the spot. 6 injured people were taken to a nearby hospital by ambulance. Doctors say that the condition of some is critical.
What happened to the attacker?
After the firing, he escaped, taking advantage of the crowd. The police have not been able to catch him yet. The entire area has been barricaded and closed. Hundreds of policemen are searching every street. Police have asked people not to come to this area without any reason, and if anyone has seen or heard anything, please inform them immediately.
During which festival did the accident happen?
This incident happened during one of the biggest street festivals of Toronto. The name is ‘Salsa on St. Clair Latin Festival’. This happens every year, and this time it was its 22nd year. Thousands of people come here because of Latin music, salsa dance, street food, and colorful decorations. Tourists also come especially for this festival. Even on Saturday, the ground was packed. Music was playing on the stage. People were taking selfies. Then the sound of several bullets came one after the other. People could not understand. After a few seconds, screams started, and a stampede broke out.
What have the police done so far?
The area was cordoned off immediately after the incident. The forensic team collected evidence. The police chief told the media that they are investigating from every angle. It is too early to say whether this is a case of hatred or gang-related. Police have started scanning the CCTV footage. He has appealed to the people that if there is a video or photo of the incident on someone’s phone, then do not delete it; give it to the police. That part of St Clair is currently closed.
The festival also had to be stopped midway. Those who had come to celebrate returned home out of fear. This type of incident rarely happens in Toronto, so people are scared. Police say that the attacker will be caught soon.
