A Toronto police officer is in the hospital recovering from a gunshot wound sustained during a robbery investigation early Thursday morning. A 27-year-old man from Peterborough is facing multiple charges, including attempted murder and assault while resisting arrest, following the incident near Queen Street E. and Sherbourne Street. According to police spokesperson Stephanie Miceli, officers responded to a stolen e-bike robbery call around 3:21 a.m.
During the arrest, the suspect allegedly shot one of the officers in the upper thigh. The injured officer received immediate medical assistance and was transported to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The accused was swiftly apprehended, and a firearm was recovered. Deputy Chief Lauran Pogue confirmed that no officers discharged their weapons during the incident.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities piece together the events leading up to the shooting. The suspect, who was out on bail for weapons-related offenses and had warrants in Peel Region and Waterloo, was also involved in a previous incident in July. Peel police Const. Laurie McCann stated that the man was prohibited from possessing weapons in 2024 but had violated these conditions.
A second suspect remains at large, with no description released by the police. The Police Union expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for stronger measures against such violence. Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw criticized the accused’s release on bail and outstanding warrants, advocating for greater accountability for repeat offenders.
Clayton Campbell, president of the Toronto Police Association, highlighted the unacceptable violence against officers, citing over 600 injuries sustained by Toronto officers this year. Premier Doug Ford called for judicial accountability for repeat offenders, suggesting potential legislative changes to address such crimes. Mayor Olivia Chow expressed optimism about the injured officer’s recovery and commended the police force’s response.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by frontline officers in Toronto, with community leaders expressing solidarity and support for the injured officer and his family.