Ontario Premier Doug Ford has strongly condemned the shooting incident at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto, calling the act “absolutely unacceptable” and warning that those responsible will face the full force of the law. The comments came after police reported that two suspects exited an SUV early Tuesday morning on University Avenue and fired at least one gunshot at the exterior of the consulate building. No injuries were reported, but authorities have described the incident as a possible national security matter and have not ruled out terrorism as a motive.
Speaking to reporters at Queen’s Park, Ford said he is confident law enforcement will identify and arrest the suspects. He also raised concerns about the possibility of extremist “sleeper cells,” saying such groups exist around the world and may also operate in Canada. While acknowledging that police had not confirmed any links to terrorism, Ford stressed that those responsible must be found and prosecuted. The shooting occurred shortly after a series of gunfire incidents targeting synagogues in the Greater Toronto Area over the past week, though investigators have not established any connection between the cases.
Police have released surveillance images of a suspect vehicle believed to be connected to the consulate shooting and are appealing to the public for information. Authorities say federal agencies, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Canadian Security Intelligence Service, are monitoring the situation closely and working with Integrated National Security Enforcement Teams to investigate the incident.
Ford also suggested that additional security measures may be needed at religious institutions across the region and said he would support installing cameras outside some places of worship following the recent violence. He emphasized that Ontario will work closely with its American allies to address the situation and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also condemned the incident, saying the recent series of shootings in the city is deeply concerning and cannot be tolerated. She pledged full support for police as they continue their investigation and work to identify those responsible for the attacks.