A popular Toronto street festival turned deadly on Saturday night after an exchange of gunfire left at least two people dead and several others injured.
The police in the Canadian city initially received reports of an active shooter on St Clair Avenue at approximately 20:12 local time.
Police found six victims suffering from gunshot wounds at the scene and recovered two firearms. No suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Around 13,000 people were at the festival when the shooting happened. Toronto Deputy Police Chief Francisco Barredo described the scene as "very chaotic".
A large police presence remains at the scene, and residents are being told to avoid the area while the investigation is underway. Police are urging anyone with information, including eyewitnesses, to step forward.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was "horrified" by the shooting, and offered his prayers to "the families grieving their loved ones, those who are in critical condition, and everyone who has been affected by this horrific event".
St. Clair Avenue West, located in midtown Toronto, is lined with local shops and restaurants. From July 11 to 12, the vibrant corridor was hosting the annual Salsa on St. Clair festival, a cultural celebration featuring live music and dance performances.
Investigators continued to comb the area into the night, with officers maintaining a heavy security presence as they searched for the suspect or suspects.
