Police are investigating yet another deadly shooting in North York, where a man was killed inside a residential property early Wednesday morning. The incident marks the third gun-related homicide in the area this month, raising fresh concerns among community members about public safety.
Toronto police responded to emergency calls just after 1:30 a.m. at a townhouse complex near Jane Street and Finch Avenue. Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots followed by the sound of vehicles speeding away from the scene.
“I was just getting ready for bed when I heard what sounded like firecrackers, maybe four or five pops,” said Mariam Khoury, who lives across from the complex. “Then there were sirens everywhere. It’s becoming too common around here.”
Officers arrived to find a man in his late twenties suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency medical efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. While police have not yet officially released the victim’s identity pending family notification, residents told me he was well-known in the neighborhood.
Detective Sergeant Kyle Edwards of the Homicide Squad addressed media at the scene, confirming that investigators believe the shooting was targeted. “We’re pursuing several leads at this time,” Edwards said. “Our team is canvassing for security footage and speaking with witnesses. We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
This latest homicide comes as Toronto Police Service data shows a troubling 14% increase in shootings across the city compared to the same period last year. The Jane-Finch community has been particularly hard-hit, with residents expressing frustration over the concentration of gun violence in their neighborhood.
Local Councillor Anthony Perruzza told me by phone that community safety remains his office’s top priority. “Each of these incidents tears at the fabric of our community. We’re working closely with police and community organizations on immediate interventions and long-term prevention strategies.”
Crime scene tape still surrounded the residence as forensic teams gathered evidence throughout the morning. Several evidence markers could be seen in the driveway and near the front entrance of the home. A damaged front door suggested a forced entry, though police would not confirm this detail.
The victim’s vehicle, a dark-colored SUV parked in the driveway, was towed from the scene for further examination. Investigators were observed speaking with visibly shaken residents and collecting surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.
Community activist Denise Campbell, who runs the North York Youth Collective, expressed the community’s growing anxiety. “People are afraid. When these shootings happen, it affects everyone – kids don’t want to play outside, seniors don’t want to walk to the store. We need more than just police responses; we need investment in these neighborhoods.”
Toronto Police statistics indicate that North York has experienced eleven homicides thus far in 2023, with seven involving firearms. City-wide, gun violence remains a persistent challenge despite enhanced policing initiatives and community outreach programs.
Mayor Olivia Chow, who campaigned on community safety improvements, issued a statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and reaffirming her commitment to addressing root causes of violence. “Every life lost to gun violence is a tragedy that affects us all. We are working on a comprehensive safety strategy that includes both prevention and enforcement.”
Police have established a dedicated tip line for this case and are asking anyone with information to contact homicide detectives or Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips have proven crucial in solving similar cases in recent months.
As daylight broke, residents gathered in small groups near the police perimeter, sharing information and concerns. Several mentioned plans for a community vigil this weekend – a sadly familiar ritual in neighborhoods touched by gun violence.
For now, investigators continue their methodical work as another Toronto family prepares to face the devastating aftermath of gun violence, and a community once again searches for answers and solutions that remain frustratingly elusive.
