‘Horrendous scene’: Six dead, including suspect, after Vaughan condo shooting
Six people are dead after an active shooter incident" at a Vaughan condo building, including a male suspect who died after an interaction with York Regional Police on Sunday night. Another victim has been transported to hospital in serious condition.
Police were called to the building at 9235 Jane St. near Rutherford Road around 7:20 p.m. following a report of a male active shooter, said police spokesperson Const. Maniva Armstrong.
Few details about the suspects and the shooter have been released by police, but in a news conference Monday morning, police said it was a horrendous scene" and they are still working to clear the building, adding there is no longer a threat to the public.
Police said in a press release that an interaction occurred" between officers and the alleged suspect, who had shot several victims." The suspect was shot by police.
The Emergency Response Unit did a thorough search of the condo tower to look for possible victims and to ensure the safety of residents, police said.
Early Monday morning, residents were seen re-entering the higher-end condo building near Vaughan Mills shopping mall, with YRP saying those who were evacuated are now able to return to their homes. The condo was cordoned off by police officers, with two cars towed off by police Monday morning.
We thank you for your patience and understanding while we worked to ensure safety and preserve evidence," YRP tweeted around 1:20 a.m. Monday.
Two women standing behind the police border told the Star late Sunday night that they hadn't been in their units for eight hours.
The investigation is still very fluid and very active right now," Armstrong said.
York Regional Police notified the Special Investigations Unit - which investigates in cases of death or serious injury involving police - who were on the scene while dozens of police cruisers lined the stretch of Jane Street in front of the building.
One man speaking with police officers around midnight was looking for his mother- and father-in-law, who he said he hadn't heard from in four hours, telling officers he was worried for their safety.
We offer our sincere condolences to the victims and their families," said York police Chief Jim MacSween, adding there was no further threat to public safety.
Mayor of Vaughan Steven Del Duca tweeted his condolences early Monday morning to the families of victims, adding he wants to recognize the brave first responders" working to safeguard the situation.
Police are asking that anyone with any information involving the incident contact the York Regional Police homicide unit at 1-288-876-5423 ext. 7865 or email homicide@yrp.ca. They can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
More to come.
Alessia Passafiume is a GTA-based staff reporter for the Star. Reach Alessia via email: apassafiume@torstar.ca