One dead in shooting near Woodbine Beach: Toronto Police
The victim, a man in his 20s, has yet to be identified by investigators
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Investigators have little to go on as police investigate Toronto’s latest gun murder.
Just before 10:40 p.m. Thursday, emergency crews were called to a laneway between Lake Shore Blvd. E. and Boardwalk Dr. – just north of Woodbine Beach – for reports of gunshots.
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“We located one victim at the time, suffering a gunshot wound to the chest,” Det.-Sgt. Trevor Grieve told reporters at the scene.
The victim, a man in his 20s, was rushed to St. Michael’s hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Police face a challenging investigation, Grieve said, as they have few details not only about the shooters but also the victim, who arrived at hospital without any ID.
“At this point, we have not confirmed the identity of our victim,” he said. “We are working on that, and we have some leads.”
Investigators and forensics technicians spent the night scouring the laneway for clues, uncovering as many as 11 shell casings and a number of projectiles.
Others went door-to-door, soliciting homeowners for clues and video footage.
Home surveillance footage aired by CP24 showed neither the victim nor suspects, but the sound of at least 11 gunshots was recorded.
As for suspects, police say they have limited information – possible two to three suspects wearing dark clothing, according to witnesses.
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Grieve said witnesses reported a heated discussion or argument before the shots rang out.
As the shooting happened in a busy laneway so close to the beach, and in close proximity to dozens homes, Grieve said he understands the public concern but pointed out investigators believe the shooting was targeted.
“We’re obviously right near the beaches and Ashbridges Bay, a lot of people were in their backyards at the time, this is a regularly, frequently-used laneway,” he said.
Anybody with information or helpful surveillance footage is asked to contact 55 Division or the Homicide Unit.
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