Federal government looking at ways to tackle wave of gun violence in Toronto
Politicians express support for victims of Danforth Avenue shooting on social media
The new federal minister responsible for tackling gun violence says he has been in touch with Toronto's mayor and police chief to discuss Sunday's deadly shooting in the city and how Ottawa can support efforts to stop a growing wave of incidents rattling Torontonians.
Bill Blair, minister of border security and organized crime reduction, made the comments on Twitter as other federal politicians tweeted their thoughts and support to victims of the shooting in Toronto's Greektown area.
I just spoke to Chief Saunders and <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontosMayor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TorontosMayor</a> about the tragic events on the Toronto Danforth last night to discuss how we can support their efforts to end the violence. We stand united in our resolve to keep our streets safe.
—@BillBlairThe shooting comes just days after Toronto police began increasing the number of police officers patrolling "high priority" areas between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. in an effort to reduce gun violence in the city.
Federal politicians react
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described the shooting as a terrible tragedy, but added that the people of Toronto are strong, resilient and brave, and Canadians will be there to support them at this difficult time.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh says his heart goes out to all those affected by the shooting, including emergency personnel who were the first to respond.
My thoughts are with everyone affected by the terrible tragedy on the Danforth last night in Toronto, and may the injured make a full recovery. The people of Toronto are strong, resilient and brave - and we’ll be there to support you through this difficult time.
—@JustinTrudeauMy heart breaks for our city of Toronto right now<br><br>totally devastated by the news out of the Danforth<br><br>our hearts are with all those impacted by the horrific shooting, along with all first responders after this tragic violence
—@theJagmeetSinghPublic Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, whose department has been overseeing a federal program aimed at reducing guns and gangs in Canada, similarly thanked first responders for their work and said he had been in touch with Toronto's mayor but didn't offer further details.
Liberal MP Julie Dabrusin, member for the area where the shooting occurred, says she is shocked and saddened by the tragedy and has contacted police for more information.
I am shocked and saddened to hear about the shooting at Danforth/Logan. I have reached out to the police for more information and to see if there is any need for assistance. As a neighbour, I will be with you to see how the community can have comfort at this difficult time.
—@juliedabrusinWith files from CBC News