A life was tragically cut short in North York Thursday afternoon, as Toronto Police responded to reports of a shooting near Marlee and Glengrove Avenues. The incident unfolded just before 12:30 p.m., casting a somber shadow over the neighborhood near Allen Road and Lawrence Avenue West.
Officers arriving at the scene discovered a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite the immediate efforts of paramedics to provide life-saving treatment, the individual succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A suspect, described as a man in his 60s, was apprehended at the location. The Homicide Unit has now assumed control of the investigation, meticulously working to piece together the events that led to this devastating outcome.
Investigators believe the shooting to be an isolated incident, assuring the public there is no ongoing threat to safety. Duty Insp. Peter Wallace expressed condolences to the victim’s family, emphasizing the active and thorough nature of the investigation.
The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head, according to police reports. Authorities are currently exploring all possibilities, including whether additional suspects may have been involved.
The tragedy unfolded while a prayer walk, led by Police Chief Myron Demkiw and Mayor Olivia Chow, was underway nearby. Faith leaders, police board chair Shelley Carroll, officers, and community members participated in the event, intended to foster connection and build trust.
The prayer walk, which originated at 13 Division, included stops at significant community landmarks like Beth Sholom Synagogue, the John Howard Society, and the British Methodist Episcopal Church. It mirrored a successful 21-year tradition from 23 Division in Etobicoke, focused on community engagement and prayer.
A comprehensive canvass of the area is underway, with officers seeking witnesses and gathering information. Anyone with knowledge related to the shooting is urged to contact the Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers, contributing to the pursuit of justice.
