Early Tuesday morning on March 10, Toronto reported that shots were fired at the United States consulate in the downtown part of the city. The incident happened just before 5:30 a.m. near University Avenue and Queen Street West, where officers found evidence of gunfire and shells outside the building. Toronto police said they are searching for suspects and investigating the situation. No one was hurt by the shooting.
Police told reporters that the consulate building, which has strong security features like heavy doors and bulletproof glass. Multiple rounds were fired on the building. After the gunfire, two people were seen leaving a white SUV and firing with a handgun at the front of the consulate. After firing, they got back into the car and drove away. Toronto police have shared picture of the vehicle and asked the public to help with any information.
Law enforcement officers described the incident as a national security matter, meaning it could affect safety and diplomatic relations in Canada. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and local police are working together on this case, while Canadian authorities have increased protection around the U.S. and other diplomatic buildings in Toronto and Ottawa.
Officials said there were people inside the consulate at the time of the shooting, but the consulate’s safety measures kept everyone safe. The building’s high level of protection is designed to resist attacks and keep staff and visitors safe.
Canadian leaders also spoke out about the shooting. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree called the act “absolutely unacceptable” and said violence and threats would not be tolerated in Canada. He stressed that the government is taking the situation seriously and will work to find those responsible.
Ontario’s leader, Doug Ford also condemned the shooting, saying authorities will use all their resources to catch the suspects and hold them accountable. Both leaders emphasized that public safety and the rule of law are the government’s top priorities.
Police have closed part of University Avenue near the consulate to support their investigation. Officers are asking anyone who saw suspicious activity or who has dashcam or security footage from the area early Tuesday morning to contact them. Police are still searching, and no one has been caught yet.
The U.S. State Department said it was aware of the shooting and is working closely with Canadian police. Officials have not shared details yet about why it happened or if it is linked to recent world events or protests. Investigators are still looking into all possibilities.
The shooting happened during a period of increased tensions that have included other incidents of gunfire in the Greater Toronto Area. Some recent events in the city, including shots fired at synagogues, have raised concerns about public safety and community tensions, but police have said there is no clear connection between the events at this time.
Police and government leaders asked the public to stay calm and cooperate while authorities continue investigating the event. The incident highlights the importance of public safety and strong investigative efforts when diplomatic locations are targeted.
