A Toronto police officer is in the hospital recovering from a gunshot wound sustained during a robbery investigation early on Thursday. A 27-year-old man from Peterborough is now facing numerous charges, including attempted murder, assault while resisting arrest, and several firearm-related charges, as per a police news release.
The incident unfolded when officers responded to a robbery call involving a stolen e-bike near Queen Street E. and Sherbourne Street around 3:21 a.m. on Thursday, according to Toronto police spokesperson Stephanie Miceli. Following the incident, Deputy Chief Lauran Pogue stated at a news briefing that the accused individual was swiftly apprehended a short distance away, with officers giving chase. During the arrest, the man allegedly shot one of the officers in the upper thigh.
The injured officer was promptly administered first aid by other officers at the scene, who applied a tourniquet before he was transported to the hospital. The officer, who has been with the service for approximately three years, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The police managed to arrest the suspect shortly afterward, recovering a firearm in the process. Deputy Chief Pogue confirmed that no officers discharged their weapons during the incident.
The accused was already under existing conditions related to weapons offenses and was wanted in Peel Region and Waterloo. Peel police Const. Laurie McCann stated via email that the man had previously been subject to conditions prohibiting him from possessing weapons since 2024. In July of the current year, a warrant was issued for his arrest after he engaged in reckless driving, evaded a police stop, and fled the scene following a collision with another vehicle.
Furthermore, another individual involved in the incident remains at large, as revealed by Deputy Chief Pogue, who did not provide a description of the suspect. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities piecing together the events leading up to the shooting.
In response to the incident, Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw expressed deep concern over the accused individual’s release on bail conditions and outstanding warrants. He emphasized the need for greater accountability for repeat violent offenders to safeguard both the community and law enforcement officers. The incident underscores the risks faced by officers while performing their duties and protecting the public.
Additionally, Clayton Campbell, president of the Toronto Police Association, condemned the violence directed at Toronto police officers as unacceptable. He lamented the shooting of another officer in the line of duty, highlighting the sacrifices made by officers to ensure the safety of the city. Campbell disclosed that over 600 Toronto officers have been injured while on duty this year.
Mayor Olivia Chow expressed optimism about the injured officer’s recovery in a social media post and commended the swift response of the Toronto police. She underscored the daily challenges faced by frontline officers in their commitment to maintaining public safety. Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop also extended well wishes for the injured officer’s speedy recuperation.
Premier Doug Ford criticized the judicial system for allowing repeat offenders out on bail and advocated for stricter measures, including mandatory sentencing in cases involving violence against law enforcement. He called for federal bail reform and urged for enhanced protection for officers and the community.
In a separate statement, mayoral candidate and City Coun. Brad Bradford reiterated solidarity with the injured officer and emphasized the importance of preventing such incidents from becoming commonplace in Toronto. The incident has sparked renewed calls for enhanced measures to deter violence against law enforcement and protect public safety.