Two killed, four injured in shooting at Toronto ‘Salsa’ Festival

The Salsa festival is one of Toronto's largest celebrations of Latin American culture.

TORONTO: Two men were killed and four other people were injured in a shooting near a popular street festival of “Salsa” in Toronto on Saturday evening.

The shooting happened near St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue. Toronto police said two people exchanged gunfire, putting many festival visitors at risk. Officers later said there was no active shooter, despite an earlier public warning.

Police found several people with gunshot wounds at the scene. Two men died from their injuries, while four others were taken to the hospital. Officials have not released details about their conditions.

CURRENT INFO:
-Police have secured the scene
-Five people have been located with gunshot wounds. Tragically, two victims have been pronounced deceased
-A large police presence remains in the area as officers continue their investigation
-Please continue to avoid the area and…

— Toronto Police Operations (@TPSOperations) July 12, 2026

Investigators recovered two firearms from the area. No arrests had been made as of late Saturday, and police continued searching for those involved.

A large police presence remained at the scene while officers collected evidence and spoke with witnesses.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said she was deeply disturbed by the violence. She said the shooting happened during a family event and called it a reckless act.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also expressed his condolences. He said he was devastated by the violence and offered support to the victims and their families.

I am devastated by the senseless violence at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival that has claimed two lives and injured others.

My thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected. Thank you to Toronto Police and our first responders for responding to this…

— Doug Ford (@fordnation) July 12, 2026

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was horrified by the shooting. He thanked police for their work and said his thoughts were with the victims, their families and everyone affected.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as people ran for safety. Valerie Rodriguez said she was sitting outside a nearby restaurant when people began screaming. She said others told everyone to lie on the ground because they did not know what was happening.

The Salsa on St. Clair festival is one of Toronto’s largest celebrations of Latin American culture. It attracts thousands of visitors each year with live music, dancing and food.

Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact investigators.