Two killed, five injured in shooting near Toronto street festival

Police said a shooting near the Salsa on St. Clair Festival in Toronto resulted in two fatalities and five people with gunshot injuries. The incident occurred at the intersection of St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue, prompting officers to advise the public to avoid the area while they secured the scene. Although the location was later declared secure, authorities said no suspect had been detained.

Witnesses described chaos as crowds fled the area. One resident recounted hearing screams and being told to lie on the floor, while a festival vendor said a “huge wave” of people ran past her stall, forcing her to stop serving customers.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed condolences on social media, noting the “senseless violence” and offering thoughts to the victims and their families. The festival, an annual celebration of Latin American culture, typically draws thousands of attendees for music, dancing, food and performances.

Toronto is generally regarded as one of North America’s safest major cities, and multiple-victim shootings in public spaces are considered uncommon.