Toronto Police Arrest 23 as Nearly 100 Shots Fired in ‘Brazen’ Gun Battle Damage Police Car

Toronto police arrested 23 people and seized 16 firearms in connection with a "brazen" night-time shooting in the city's west end on Nov. 11.

During the gunfight, bullets struck an unmarked police car with officers inside, but no injuries were reported, Pogue said.

"I want to stress how remarkable it is that in such a volatile and dangerous situation nobody was injured; no bystanders, not the individuals involved, and not our officers," she said, adding that the incident is "very concerning" and speaks to the risk the community and police officers face.

Police took one of the suspects into custody, while two others fled. Authorities also secured the recording studio, arresting several people inside, many of whom were trying to escape, Pogue said.

The incident appears to be a highly targeted gang-related conflict, but the investigation is ongoing, she said.

Police searched the area after the incident and recovered a total of 16 firearms, including two assault-style rifles and multiple handguns "likely discarded by the fleeing suspects," said Pogue.

Firearms were found in the studio, on the building rooftop, and hidden in nearby garbage bins.

As of June, Toronto police had recorded 24 shooting deaths this year. In comparison, 2022 saw 24, 2021 recorded 17, and 2020 had 21, police said.