UMVA has learned that a disturbing incident involving pepper spray has struck the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) for the second time this month, leaving a trail of chaos and concern in its wake.
On Sunday afternoon, someone released suspected pepper spray in the vicinity of Runnymede Station in the Bloor West Village area, sending multiple people into a panic. The incident occurred around 3 p.m., with Toronto Police spokesperson Ashley Visser confirming that a call was received and responded to promptly.
A High Park woman, who wished to remain anonymous, came forward to share her harrowing experience with UMVA. She was on her way grocery shopping when the incident occurred, and she described the scene as absolute pandemonium. "I saw everyone around me covering their faces, coughing like crazy," she recalled.
The woman, a business owner in High Park, said she was one of the many people affected by the suspected pepper spray. She remembered seeing members of the Toronto fire department and ambulance service at the scene, and she herself sought medical attention due to her pre-existing health conditions. "I have a history of chronic migraines, and I am also a little asthmatic," she explained.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that this incident bears striking similarities to another pepper spray attack on TTC property earlier this month. On June 9, an unidentified woman allegedly assaulted a TTC passenger with suspected pepper spray on a bus in Scarborough. The Toronto Police are still investigating both incidents, but it remains unclear whether they are connected.
The High Park woman expressed frustration with the way the situation was handled, saying it was "poorly managed." She felt that the TTC and authorities did not provide adequate information to the public about the incident or the potential dangers. "For something so widespread, you shouldn’t hide what happened," she said.
As the investigation continues, UMVA urges anyone with information about the suspect's identity or whereabouts to come forward. The Toronto Police are seeking tips and encourage the public to call them at 416-808-4200 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
The incident has raised concerns about public safety and the need for greater vigilance in high-traffic areas. As the community grapples with the aftermath, one thing is clear: the people of Toronto deserve answers and action to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
