Man stabbed after fireworks at Ashbridge’s Bay; Two dozen arrests over long weekend

Toronto police say five people have been arrested following Monday night’s Victoria Day celebrations at Ashbridges Bay Park, but adds the event was largely peaceful.

These arrests are the latest in a string of violent incidents at Toronto beaches over the long weekend.

Police say over the period of several hours Monday night, three people were arrested for reportedly setting off fireworks and a 19-year-old man was aiming them at a crowd of people. Officers say two people were released.

A 23-year-old man was stabbed just after 11 p.m. — shortly after the fireworks concluded. The incident stemmed from an altercation between two adults, which police say is still under investigation.

The victim suffered a punctured lung and was transported to hospital in serious but stable condition. Police do not believe Monday night’s stabbing is connected to a number of incidents from Sunday night.

Officers say two people were also arrested on a TTC bus after allegedly making gun threats. They say a replica gun was found and one of the individuals was released.

Police say 19-year-old Harristen Kumaragu of Toronto has been charged with common nuisance, carrying a concealed weapon, and weapons dangerous. Kumaragu appeared in court on Tuesday.

And 18-year-old Quame Marcus Manahan of Toronto, police say, is charged with common nuisance and is set to appear in court in July.

Police had a significant presence for the celebrations on Monday following a number of violent events the night before at Woodbine Beach and Ashbridge’s Bay.

Nineteen people were arrested and charged after the violent Sunday that included a shooting, a stabbing, two robberies at gunpoint, and multiple reports of people directing fireworks at others.

Police said seven officers were injured during the police response. One officer broke his leg while responding to the shooting and two officers received burns and ear injuries after having fireworks thrown and exploded near them. Another officer was struck in the face by a firework and suffered injuries to his ears and eyes.

On Monday evening, Toronto police released details about the charges laid in connection to the incidents on Sunday night.

Mayor Tory condemns violent actions at Woodbine Beach, Ashbridge’s Bay

Toronto Mayor John Tory condemned the actions at Woodbine Beach and Ashbridge’s Bay on Sunday night, calling them “criminal and reckless acts.”

“This is totally unacceptable behaviour and I support police doing all they can to protect people and keep the public safe,” Tory wrote in a statement, in part, released online.

The mayor said he’s been staying in touch with the police chief and discussing steps to take to minimize the presence of fireworks on beaches to keep them safe.

Tory went on to wish the seven officers hospitalized quick recoveries and thanked the first responders working this weekend.

Police are asking anyone who may have information about any of these incidents, including videos or pictures, to contact officers or Crime Stoppers.