Toronto Faces Surge in Tow Truck-Related Shootings
Toronto police are investigating a series of shootings linked to the towing industry after three violent incidents occurred within 24 hours. The latest shooting happened outside a tow yard in Etobicoke on Wednesday night, marking the third attack in a single day.
Three Shootings in Two Days
Gunfire erupted Tuesday at 10:20 p.m. outside a tow yard near Weston Road and St. Clair Avenue West. Two men suffered gunshot wounds—one in his 50s remains in critical condition, while the other, in his 20s, sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
An hour later, at 11:20 p.m., another tow truck driver took a bullet in Scarborough at a gas station and car wash on Lawrence Avenue East near Warden Avenue. The man in his 20s survived, but the suspect escaped the scene.
On Wednesday night, officers responded to gunfire outside a tow yard in Etobicoke near The West Mall and The Queensway. Although no one was injured, police found evidence of gunfire. The suspect fled in a vehicle before authorities arrived.
Police Investigate Possible Links
Investigators are working to determine if the three incidents connect. So far, authorities have not shared any suspect or vehicle descriptions.
Const. Viktor Sarudi stated that police will explore any potential links between the shootings. With five reported firearm discharges and eight shootings tied to the towing industry in 2025 alone, concerns continue to grow.
Task Force Targets Towing Industry Violence
In January 2025, Toronto police launched a special task force to combat rising crime in the towing industry. Last year, tow truck-related disputes accounted for 13% of all shootings in Toronto, with 63 incidents of firearm discharge and violence.
Police urge anyone with information to contact investigators as they work to reduce violence within the industry.
More…
- https://www.cp24.com/news/2025/03/06/shots-fired-outside-etobicoke-tow-yard-in-third-tow-truck-related-shooting-in-24-hour-period
- https://www.thestar.com/news/crime/more-than-a-dozen-towing-related-shootings-in-toronto-so-far-this-year-police-say/article_281fe890-f977-11ef-9581-c7f5e9c16c5c.html
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/shootings-tow-yard-truck-toronto-1.7474999Â
