At least two people were killed and four others injured after a gunman opened fire at a Latin street festival in Toronto, Canada, on July 11, 2026. The shooting occurred at around 8:12 p.m. local time as approximately 13,000 attendees gathered for Salsa on St Clair near St Clair Avenue West.
Victims and Response
Six people were treated for gunshot wounds. Two men died at the scene, and four others—including a woman—were taken to hospital, according to a witness who spoke to CP24. No arrests have been made, and no suspect descriptions have been released. Two firearms were recovered at the scene.
Festival-goers described a chaotic scene. Vendor Patsy Gutierrez told Toronto Today: 'Everybody started getting frantic and then we stopped serving. I don't think it should be something that’s happening in these type of events.' William Ajselett, who was lining up for food, said he saw 'a crowd-crushing situation' and feared his wife and friends were caught in it.
Police Investigation
Toronto Police Operations posted on X at around 9:30 p.m. that 'suspect(s) still outstanding.' Despite initial fears of an active shooter, Deputy Chief Frank Barredo said at an 11 p.m. press conference that this 'turned out not to be the case.' He added: 'It’s very difficult to say with certainty what precipitated this. I can tell you that there was an exchange of gunfire between individuals and that two firearms were recovered.' It is unknown if any suspects were among the victims. Barredo stated: 'We will piece together some of those bits of information and when we’re able to share it with the public, we certainly will.'
Political Reaction
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed horror on X: 'I am horrified by the shooting that has killed two people at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival in Toronto. My prayers are with the families grieving their loved ones, those who are in critical condition, and everyone who has been affected by this horrific event.'
Mayor Olivia Chow said the shooting left her 'beyond words.' She told reporters: 'I’m deeply disturbed and angry about this reckless, irresponsible act of violence – and right in the middle of a festival attended by families, children, seniors.' Ontario Premier Doug Ford thanked first responders and demanded: 'The person responsible must be caught, brought to justice and spend the rest of their life behind bars.'
Festival Background
Salsa on St Clair, a 22-year-old tradition featuring live music, food stalls, and salsa dancing, was shut down after the incident. Councillor Josh Matlow noted the atmosphere earlier was 'very peaceful' and 'the vibe was great.' The festival's website promises an 'unforgettable day.' Mass shootings are rare in Toronto, making the event particularly shocking.
