Two Killed, Four Injured in Shooting at Toronto’s Salsa Festival
TORONTO: A lively street festival in Toronto turned into a crime scene after gunfire erupted during the annual Salsa on St. Clair celebration, leaving two men dead and four others wounded, according to Toronto police.
The shooting occurred shortly after 8 p.m. on Saturday, sending thousands of festivalgoers fleeing in panic as emergency responders rushed to the scene. Authorities confirmed that four victims were hospitalized with gunshot wounds, while investigators continue searching for those responsible.
Police said no arrests have been made and are working to determine how many suspects may have been involved. Officials also stated there is no ongoing threat to public safety, though the investigation remains active.
Toronto City Councillor Josh Matlow described the transformation from a vibrant community celebration to a heavily guarded crime scene as deeply unsettling.
“What had been a joyful gathering filled with music and dancing only hours earlier suddenly became the focus of a major police investigation,” he said.
By Sunday morning, St. Clair Avenue West was lined with police tape and evidence markers. Abandoned shoes, food containers and vendor stalls reflected the chaos that unfolded as crowds rushed to escape the gunfire. Organizers cancelled the festival’s second day following the tragedy.
The event’s organizer, Salsa in Toronto, expressed condolences to the victims’ families and everyone affected, calling the violence a senseless act that overshadowed a celebration of culture and community.
Residents living near the festival recalled scenes of fear and confusion. Lindsey Petrus said hundreds of frightened people poured into her neighbourhood moments after the shooting, with many crying, injured or searching for family members.
She and her neighbours provided water, first aid and mobile phones to help those separated from loved ones. Among those seeking assistance were two teenage girls who had been trampled while fleeing the crowded festival.
Witnesses also described seeing people suffering panic attacks, with several becoming physically ill from shock and anxiety.
Toronto police continue collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses as they work to identify those responsible for the deadly attack. Authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage from the area to contact investigators.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE