Shot Fired Outside US Consulate in Toronto for Second Time This Year
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A shot was fired outside the US Consulate in Toronto early Monday, marking the second such incident this year.
- Police found evidence of a firearm discharge, and a white sedan was seen fleeing the scene; no injuries were reported.
- Authorities are working closely with Canadian law enforcement, and while the embassy and consulates remain open, some routine services are rescheduled.
Toronto police responded to a report of a gunshot outside the US Consulate in downtown early Monday, finding evidence that a firearm had been discharged. This marks the second incident of its kind at the building this year, following a similar event on March 10.
We appreciate the ongoing cooperation between US and Canadian law enforcement to keep our consulate safe.
Officers discovered a shell casing and damage to the building's facade. A white sedan was observed fleeing the area, and police briefly pursued the vehicle before discontinuing the chase due to its high speed. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
A spokesperson for the US Department of State confirmed they are collaborating closely with Canadian authorities to ensure the consulate's safety. While the US Embassy and consulates in Canada remain operational, some routine consular services in Toronto have been rescheduled. The spokesperson expressed appreciation for the ongoing cooperation between US and Canadian law enforcement.
We'll point out that it is quite early in this investigation. Some information I may not be able to share, and some information I simply may not know at this point.
Toronto Deputy Police Chief Frank Barredo stated that an officer assigned to the consulate's security detail heard the gunshot around 4:46 a.m. EDT. He declined to comment on potential motives or any links to previous incidents at the consulate, emphasizing that the investigation is in its early stages. Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the shooting and recent vandalism at two Jewish bakeries, expressing disgust and calling for those responsible to be found, prosecuted, and punished.
Iโm totally disgusted by the shootings and vandalism that took place in Toronto over the last few days, including at two Jewish-owned businesses over the weekend and near the US Consulate this morning. In all cases, active police investigations are underway. I expect all those responsible to be found, prosecuted and punished to the fullest extent of the law.
Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.