Raptors’ celebration disrupted by shootings
TORONTO — Gunfire broke out and a stampede ensued as fans celebrated at a rally Monday for the NBA champion Raptors, leaving four people shot and thousands fleeing less than a block from where the players and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sat on stage.
Three people were arrested and two guns were recovered, Toronto police said. Asked if it was a targeted shooting or terrorism-related, police spokeswoman Allison Sparkes said the investigation was ongoing.
Droves of Raptors fans ran from the shooting in a stampede from the City Hall square, which was packed with tens of thousands of people. Earlier Monday, more than a million fans packed downtown for a parade for the Raptors, raising concerns about safety and overcrowding as the city celebrated its first major sports title in more than a quartercentury.
Police Chief Mark Saunders said four people suffered gunshot wounds but said none of the injuries was life-threatening. Others suffered minor injuries as they tried to get away from the shooting, Saunders said.
During a speech from one of the team owners, the host of the rally, sportscaster Matt Devlin, interrupted to alert the crowd to an emergency and ask for calm. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Toronto Mayor John Tory, NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard and other players were on the stage at the time.
Mike Mudidi said he was enjoying the celebration when he heard screams behind him that someone had pulled out a gun. He said he froze as people started running in all directions.
“I just grabbed my buddies’ hands and ran,” he said.
“It is disappointing and I’m sure a source of anger for more than just me that anyone would carry a gun and discharge it at what was otherwise a joyous celebration,” Tory said in a statement. “I hope those found responsible will be held to account to the full extent that the law permits. I want to commend and thank the millions of other people who happily and peacefully celebrated our beloved Toronto Raptors.”