The shooting occurred shortly after 8:30 pm near Flemington and Zachary Roads, close to Ranee Avenue and Allen Road. Emergency crews responded to reports of gunfire and found multiple victims in an alleyway between a high-rise building and Allen Road.
According to the Toronto Crime Watch X account, the shooting appeared to be "gang related."
"Lawrence Heights shooting is gang related. They targeted 'Rapper' Top5's friend, who was a paraplegic and bound to a wheelchair. Top5 was recently released from prison after his murder charge was stayed," the tweet states. This report has not been confirmed as of the time of publishing.
Duty Senior Officer Baheer Sarvanandan confirmed that a man in his 40s was pronounced dead at the scene. Five others — four men and one woman — were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators believe “multiple suspects” are involved in the shooting, though no arrests have been made and it remains unclear whether those responsible fled on foot or in a vehicle.
Sarvanandan described the crime scene as “large and complex,” explaining that while the initial shooting took place in the alleyway, some victims were found in nearby areas shortly after. No firearms have been recovered so far.
When asked if the attack was random or targeted, Sarvanandan said, “I don’t have the full information, but it is an ongoing investigation.” He added there is “no risk to public safety” at this time.
Police have established a command post at Ranee Avenue and Flemington Road and are canvassing the area for evidence and witness statements.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed concern in a statement, saying she is “disturbed” by the violence and that her office is in contact with police. “I want to thank the first responders – Toronto Police, Fire and Paramedic services for your work on a very busy and challenging scene,” Chow said.
City Councillor Mike Colle, who represents the area, also visited the scene and condemned the violence. “It’s really wild, wild west scene up here tonight,” he told CP24. “It’s very, very disappointing and very, very upsetting to see this happen, because we’ve had really peace and quiet up here in Lawrence Heights for the last number of years, and to see this peace broken by this incredible irresponsible use of guns.”
The investigation is ongoing.
