Toronto was shaken on Saturday evening as a shooting erupted during the Salsa on St. Clair festival, an event celebrating Latino culture. According to Toronto police, the incident occurred around 8:15 p.m. ET, leading to chaos as festival-goers sought safety amid the gunfire.
Authorities confirmed that two individuals lost their lives at the scene, while three others sustained injuries and were promptly transported to local hospitals for treatment. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.
Witnesses described the atmosphere before the shooting as vibrant, filled with music and festivities, which made the sudden violence all the more shocking. “It was such a beautiful celebration, and then everything just changed in an instant,” said one attendee who witnessed the tragic event.
As of late Saturday night, the police had secured the scene near St. Clair Avenue and Arlington Avenue and were conducting a thorough investigation. Officials have not yet disclosed whether a suspect has been identified or if any arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.
City officials expressed their condolences to the victims' families and emphasized the need for community safety.