Scarborough Shooting: Chaos Erupts at Piper Arms Pub, 12 Hospitalized
Scarborough Shooting Shakes Toronto: 12 Injured in Brazen Attack
Scarborough was rocked by gunfire and chaos on what was supposed to be a celebratory night. The grand opening of a new pub near Scarborough Town Centre turned into a nightmare when three masked suspects stormed in and opened fire indiscriminately.
Gunmen Storm Piper Arms – What Happened?
On Friday night at 10:40 p.m., a violent ambush unfolded inside Piper Arms Pub on Progress Avenue. According to Toronto police, three masked men—one wielding an assault rifle and the other two carrying handguns—walked into the crowded venue and fired at random.
“They walked into the bar. They produced their guns, and they opened fire indiscriminately on the people sitting inside,” said Supt. Paul MacIntyre of Organized Crime Enforcement.
When emergency crews arrived, they found 12 people injured, their ages ranging from 20s to mid-50s.
- 6 victims suffered gunshot wounds.
- The other 6 sustained injuries from shattered glass and debris.
- Miraculously, no fatalities have been reported.
“I’m happy to report by the grace of God that there’s been no fatalities,” MacIntyre added. “Again, extremely lucky.”
Investigators Scramble for Clues
The suspects fled the scene, and police are now chasing leads. A silver car was spotted leaving the area, and one suspect was seen wearing a black balaclava. But beyond that? No solid description. No clear motive.
Police have set up a command post, sifting through surveillance footage and eyewitness reports to piece together what happened.
“The motive for this shooting remains unclear. We’re chasing down all leads,” said MacIntyre. “This was a brazen and reckless act of violence that’s really shaken our community.”
Terror Inside the Pub – Patrons Scrambled for Cover
The surveillance footage is gut-wrenching. MacIntyre described a scene of pure panic:
- Patrons ducked for cover, diving to the ground.
- Some bolted for the basement, hiding from the gunfire.
- Food and drinks abandoned mid-meal, shoes and purses left behind.
- Blood on the floors. Shattered glass everywhere. Bullet holes in the walls.
“It looks like we had a mass-casualty shooting inside a pub,” MacIntyre said. “When you walk in, it’s eerie. The drinks are still on the table. The food is still on the table. People’s belongings are still there.”
Is This Shooting Connected to Toronto’s Tow Truck Violence?
Toronto has seen four other shootings this week, all linked to the tow truck industry. Could this be part of the same wave of violence?
“We’re open to that, but we’re not sure yet,” MacIntyre said. Investigators are looking at the pub’s owners and patrons to see if someone inside was a specific target.
Mayor Olivia Chow Responds
Mayor Olivia Chow took to social media, expressing her deep concern:
“I am deeply troubled to hear reports of a shooting at a pub in Scarborough. I have spoken to (Toronto police) Chief (Myron) Demkiw and he has assured me all necessary resources have been deployed. This is an early and ongoing investigation – police will provide further details. My thoughts are with the victims and their families.”
Scarborough Residents Demand Action
This brazen attack has left the community on edge. Scarborough residents are demanding answers and better safety measures.
- Will there be increased police presence in nightlife areas?
- How will city officials address gun violence?
- What will it take to prevent another mass shooting like this?
What’s Next?
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. If you saw anything suspicious, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or Toronto Police at (416) 808-2222.
As this investigation unfolds, Toronto watches closely. Who were these gunmen? What was their motive? And will they be caught before striking again?