A well-known Brampton criminal defence lawyer was shot outside his office Tuesday evening, and less than 12 hours later, the same office was set on fire — prompting a major investigation by Peel Regional Police.
The incident began around 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday, July 22, when police responded to reports of gunfire at the Sodhi Law Office, located on George Street North near Queen Street West. A man suffering from a gunshot wound was found at the scene and rushed to hospital. While authorities did not officially name the victim, multiple neighbours and media outlets, including CityTV and CTV Toronto, identified him as Manbir Singh Sodhi, the founder of the law firm. His injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Sodhi, a criminal defence lawyer also known for practicing family and real estate law, operates his firm from the ground floor of a 302-unit condominium building. Residents and passersby reported hearing the commotion near the building’s front entrance, though it remains unclear whether the shooting took place just outside or within the office foyer.
Then, at approximately 5:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, fire crews were called to the same location to respond to a suspicious blaze. Peel Police confirmed that arson investigators are involved, stating the fire occurred near Queen Street West and George Street North, the same intersection as the shooting. Authorities say the cause is still under investigation and more details may be released.
By Friday, signs of both violence and cleanup were still visible. Two windows at the front of the law office had been boarded up with plywood, and cleaning crews were working inside to remove smoke damage. A large blue blower could be seen circulating air from the charred interior. A blood smear remained on the tile floor just inside the entrance, near three police identification markers placed around the scene.
A neighbour from the condo, who identified himself only as David, said he was familiar with the lawyer and expressed shock at the violent turn of events. “I knew him to be a good guy,” he said, “but no one really knows what happened yet.”
Police have not confirmed whether the two incidents are connected, but the timing and location strongly suggest a targeted attack. Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses as the community watches closely for updates.