Toronto, Ontario – Sept. 3, 2025 — A busy school day in Toronto’s west end turned chaotic Wednesday when a gunfight between two groups of individuals erupted near Keele Street and Donald Avenue, leaving a teenager and an innocent bystander seriously injured.
The Midday Gunfight
Police say the shooting broke out just before noon, when two groups of three to four people exchanged gunfire across Keele Street, in the shadow of York Memorial Collegiate Institute.
Amid the hail of bullets, a 17-year-old male was struck, along with a 30-year-old woman who was simply driving through the area at the time. Investigators have not confirmed if the teen was involved in the gunfight but stressed that the woman was an unintended victim.
Toronto paramedics transported both victims to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Swift Police Action
Within minutes, police locked down the area and apprehended one suspect. Officers also recovered a firearm and a loaded magazine at the scene. Authorities say they are still searching for other suspects, who fled before officers arrived.
“This kind of reckless gun violence has no place in our city,” said Acting Superintendent James Dixon during an afternoon update. “It is deeply troubling that an innocent woman, simply driving through the neighborhood, became a victim.”
Schools on Lockdown
The shooting triggered immediate safety protocols at York Memorial Collegiate Institute and several nearby schools. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) confirmed that lockdown and “hold and secure” measures were in place for more than an hour.
By early afternoon, those measures were lifted, but not before families experienced anxious moments.
“My daughter texted me that she was hiding under her desk. I raced here as fast as I could,” said Maria Lopes, a parent waiting outside the school. “It’s terrifying to think this happened so close to them.”
Community on Edge
Residents of the Keele Street corridor say the gunfight has left them shaken.
“This is supposed to be a safe, family neighborhood. To have bullets flying across the street at lunchtime—it’s outrageous,” said local resident Victor Almeida.
City councillor Frances Nunziata condemned the violence and urged residents to support police in their investigation.
Investigation Ongoing
The Toronto Police Gun and Gang Task Force is now leading the case. Investigators are gathering surveillance footage and appealing to witnesses.
Police are asking anyone with information to call 416-808-2222 or reach out anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
A Larger Pattern of Violence
Wednesday’s shooting is the latest in a string of violent incidents plaguing Toronto’s west end. Community advocates say the repeated gunfire near schools and public spaces highlights the urgent need for solutions to curb illegal firearms and gang activity.
For now, Keele Street has reopened, but the investigation continues, and the community remains on edge.
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