Off-Duty Officer Shot While Recognizing Suspect in Toronto

In a startling incident on Saturday night, an off-duty police officer was shot in the leg after identifying a suspect wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for attempted murder. The encounter occurred around 11:30 p.m. in the bustling area of Bathurst and King streets. The off-duty officer, acting on instinct and training, recognized the suspect and promptly contacted on-duty officers for assistance, according to police reports.

The suspect, already wanted in connection with a shooting that took place on December 3, 2022, near Church Street and Front Street East, attempted to flee the scene on foot as officers arrived. The police detailed, “During this time, the suspect shot the off-duty officer in the leg.” The suspect, who was 28 years old at the time of the previous incident, now faces an additional charge of attempted murder, along with several weapons charges.

The swift response from law enforcement led to the suspect’s arrest, and a firearm was confiscated at the scene. The Toronto Police Association confirmed that the injured officer, a 30-year-old with six years of service, has been treated and released from the hospital. Despite the alarming incident, the association expressed relief and pride in a social media post on X, stating, “Despite this event, our member is in good spirits and is well on his way to recovery. We are thankful he’s going to be OK and we are proud of his efforts.”

This event coincides with the National Day Against Gun Violence, which saw emotional appeals across Toronto for stronger measures to curb gun-related crimes. The shooting highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, even when they are off duty, and underscores the ongoing challenges in tackling gun violence in the city.

The quick actions of the off-duty officer and the coordinated response of the on-duty officers undoubtedly prevented a potentially more tragic outcome. The community, while shaken, has rallied in support of the injured officer, applauding his bravery and the effective police work that led to the suspect’s apprehension. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily and the importance of continued efforts to ensure public safety.