Sunday 12 July 2026

At least two killed in Toronto mass shooting after an 'exchange of gunfire'

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GB NEWS

Peter Stevens

By Peter Stevens


Published: 12/07/2026

- 03:52

Updated: 12/07/2026

- 06:08

At least six others have been found with gunshot wounds, police said

At least two men were killed in Toronto, Canada, after an exchange of gunfire at a street festival.

Toronto Police received reports of a shooting at St Clair Avenue at 8.12pm local time (1.12am BST).


The street was hosting a salsa festival at the time of the attack.

At least six other people have been found with gunshot wounds.

Toronto Police Operations has advised the public to stay away from the scene.

"A large police presence remains in the area as officers continue their investigation," Toronto Police said on social media.

The suspect, or suspects, are still to be apprehended, but there is not an active shooter situation as previously believed, Toronto Deputy Police Chief Frank Barredo said.

Pictures from the scene showed emergency services performing CPR on a wounded person within a police cordon.

Canada shooting response

At least six other people have been found with gunshot wounds

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REUTERS

A witness told CBC News, Canada's public broadcaster, the attack happened near the stage area after an "altercation".

One person was "shot in the face" by a large gun, another witness told the broadcaster.

People were also seen sobbing, running up and down the street as CPR as was performed to those who had been injured.

Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, said he was "horrified" by the shooting at the Salsa festival.

He said: "My prayers are with the families grieving their loved ones, those who are in critical condition, and everyone who has been affected by this horrific event.

Canada shooting responseToronto Police are still searching for a suspect | REUTERS

"My thanks to the police officers and other first responders whose courage and fast action prevented further tragedy. Police have my full support as they work to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice."

Doug Ford, the Premier of Ontario, said he was "devastated" by the violence which had happened on the streets.

"My thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected. Thank you to Toronto Police and our first responders for responding to this horrific incident," he added.

The Mayor of Toronto, Olivia Chow, said she was "disgusted and angered" by the shooting, giving her thoughts to those who have been injured or killed.

Police presence at Toronto shooting

Video from the scene showed urgent CPR being performed by emergency services

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REUTERS

She added: "This was a reckless, despicable act of violence at a crowded festival.

"I will ensure Toronto Police have every resource they need to find those responsible, and they will keep working around the clock to get guns off our streets."

St Clair Avenue in midtown Toronto is a busy area lined with shops and restaurants.

The area was hosting the 22nd edition of the city's annual Salsa on St Clair Latin festival, featuring live music and dance performances.