Toronto police are searching for at least three suspects who opened fire inside a Scarborough pub late Friday night, leaving 12 people injured. Authorities say the attack was carried out “indiscriminately” as patrons gathered for the establishment’s grand opening.
Shortly before 10:40 p.m., three masked men entered the Piper Arms Pub near Scarborough Town Centre. One suspect was armed with an assault rifle, while the other two carried handguns. Without warning, they opened fire on the crowd inside.
“They walked into the bar, they produced their guns, and they opened fire indiscriminately on the people sitting inside the bar,” said Supt. Paul MacIntyre. “This was a brazen and reckless act of violence that’s shaken our community and the city itself.”
Among the 12 injured, six people sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Others were hurt by shattered glass and debris. The victims range in age from their mid-20s to mid-50s. Officers arriving at the scene encountered a chaotic situation, with some individuals lying on the floor and others wounded but still seated at tables.
Police have not released detailed descriptions of the suspects, who were last seen fleeing in a vehicle. An initial report suggested the suspects may have escaped in a silver car. One of the gunmen was seen wearing a black balaclava.
Investigators are examining multiple possible motives. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the attack was targeted, but no immediate link has been established to the recent spate of shootings related to the towing industry. “The motive for this shooting right now remains unclear. We’re chasing down all leads,” MacIntyre said.
Police are reviewing surveillance footage and collecting evidence. MacIntyre described a disturbing scene inside the pub, where drinks and food remained untouched at tables, alongside purses and shoes left behind by patrons fleeing for their lives. “There’s a lot of damage to the walls. There’s glass walls that are shattered. There’s blood all over the floor,” he said.
The attack occurred on what was meant to be a celebratory night for the establishment. As police work to identify those responsible, Mayor Olivia Chow said she was “deeply troubled” by the incident. “I have spoken to Chief Demkiw, and he has assured me all necessary resources have been deployed,” she stated in a social media post. “My thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
Toronto police are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
