Canada10 March, 20261 min read
Two Men Fire Multiple Shots at U.S. Consulate in Toronto, Flee in White SUV
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Gunfire struck the U.S. consulate in downtown Toronto early Tuesday morning Toronto police responded and remained on scene investigating the shooting
What happened
Two men fired multiple shots at the U.S. Consulate in downtown Toronto early Tuesday, police said.
“Two men fired at the U.S. Consulate in downtown Toronto on Tuesday, the city’s police force said.”
The shooters drove by in a white Honda CR-V, got out and both fired multiple rounds from a single handgun.
No one was injured, though television images showed apparent bullet marks on a glass door at the main entrance.
Police response
Toronto police said investigators were searching for the two suspects and asking the public for help, including dashboard-camera footage. Forensic teams photographed the consulate facade after arriving in a large forensics van. Authorities said the consulate shooting was being investigated as a national security incident.
Official reactions
Political and law-enforcement leaders condemned the attack and called for heightened vigilance. Ontario Premier Doug Ford labelled it “an absolutely unacceptable act of violence and intimidation.”
“‘The shooting that took place at the U.S. consulate early this morning is an absolutely unacceptable act of violence and intimidation directed at our American friends and neighbors,’ Ontario Premier Doug Ford said in a statement.”
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow stressed that the city’s Jewish community must be able to live without fear. An RCMP chief superintendent urged increased vigilance at U.S. and Israeli consulates.
Context and tensions
The shooting occurred amid a tense local context. Media reports noted recent shootings at area synagogues, though outlets differ on the exact number. There have also been large demonstrations outside the consulate tied to the war in Iran, described as occurring both in support of and in protest of U.S. policy.
Security measures
Authorities said they would increase security at diplomatic sites and asked the public to report information. Police reiterated there were no reported injuries. Officers encouraged anyone with footage or information to come forward as the investigation continues.
“The authorities said additional security would be provided to the American and Israeli consulates in Toronto and Ottawa.”