5 men wounded in early morning drive-by shooting in Scarborough: police

Toronto police say an early morning drive-by shooting in Scarborough on Saturday that left five men seriously injured appears to be a random attack, but they are not ruling out the possibility the victims were targeted because of their religion.

Superintendent David Rydzik said around 1 a.m. a group of individuals were gathered at a parking lot, in the area of Markham Road and Lawrence Avenue East, trying to decide where to go for a meal after their midnight Ramadan prayer service when the shooting occurred.

It’s not known at this time if the victims were in traditional clothing.

Rydzik said a vehicle was seen driving away from the scene, believed to be northbound on Markham Road after approximately six shots were fired.

Police have not provided a suspect description at this time.

When police arrived they found four men suffering from gunshot wounds. A fifth victim eventually made their way to hospital.

“Any violence in the community is concerning, the brazenness of this is extra concerning,” said Rydzik. “We’ve been seeing, all to often in recent weeks, these random acts of violence. …There’s nothing to indicate that these individuals were involved in any type of criminality that would make them subject to this type of action.”

Police say the victims are between the ages 28 and 35, and their injuries are not life threatening. Rydzik said three of the victims have since been released from hospital and the remaining two are expected to recover.

Rydzik added the victims are not known to police.

Members of the community say they’re frustrated by the repeated violent incidents in the area.

“I’m upset. I’m really upset,” said Nadeem Sheikh, a board member with the Scarborough Muslim Association. “These are five members of the community, family-oriented men with kids, married. No history whatsoever of any sort of violence – and I’d take it a step further, leaders of the community.”

Peel Region Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah said he was appalled by the shooting, adding police would be increasing their presence and reassurance protocal around mosques throughout Peel.

Police are asking anyone who was in the area at the time of the shooting, or has dashcam footage, to come forward or to contact Crime Stoppers.

Five people are seriously injured after a drive-by shooting early Saturday in Scarborough, according to Toronto Police. (Rylan Vallee/CityNews Toronto)

We are investigating this shooting that injured 5 men in @TPS43Div sending them to hospital. It’s too early to confirm motive but our Hate Crimes Unit is engaged and the Division is working with the local community. Please call police or Crimestoppers if you have information. https://t.co/9vW2IRfbqF

— Retired Chief James Ramer (@jamesramertps) April 16, 2022