Toronto’s police chief calls it the worst incident of gun violence in North America.   Two people are dead, including a young teenage girl  and 19 others are injured after gunfire was exchanged late last night in the Morningside and Lawrence area of East Toronto.  The shooting happened at about 10:30 pm when an altercation broke out during an outdoor party at 193 Danzig Street.  Some 200 people were at the event described as a “get to know your neighbour” party. 

Chief Bill Blair was quick to respond and was visibly shaken when he explained how shocked he is by what’s taken place, “Well, I think every citizen of Toronto will be shaken up by what has transpired.  This is an area of the city that has never experienced this level of violence before.” 

Chief Blair confirmed that a 2 year old child is one of those injured, but he reassured that the toddler will survive.  In the minutes after the shooting, there was panic, as victims who suffered gunshots ran for help.  Neighbours assisted in helping to treat wounds and call 911. 

Sixteen ambulances, including vehicles called in from York and Durham regions, were used to transport the injured to area hospitals.  Chief Blair says one of the injured is a person of interest in the case and is in police custody.  Toronto Mayor Rob Ford has released a statement.  He says he is shocked and disgusted by this senseless act of violence.