1 man dead, another critically injured in targeted shooting at Toronto Muslim Cemetery

By John Marchesan and Lucas Casaletto

One man has died, and another man is in critical condition in hospital following what police believe was a targeted shooting at the Toronto Muslim Cemetery in Richmond Hill.

York Regional Police say they were called to the Toronto Muslim Cemetery on Leslie Street just after 3:30 p.m. Thursday.

When they arrived, they found one victim suffering from at least five gunshot wounds inside a vehicle, while another victim was also shot multiple times. Both men were rushed to a hospital.

Police say 26-year-old Ayub Hirsi Ali of Barrie died from his injuries. A 27-year-old man remains in a trauma centre in serious condition.

Police believe the shooting was targeted, and there is no concern for public safety.

Authorities in York Region say the shooting occurred during a funeral service for Gidid Mohamed, who was killed at a social club near Lawrence Avenue and Weston Road.

Approximately 60 people attended the funeral, and cemetery officials say the shooting started just as guests left.

Police say they are searching for three suspects who fled north on Leslie Street in an SUV. They are described as males, wearing hoodies and masks.

Toronto Muslim Cemetery condemns fatal shooting at funeral

A spokesperson for the Toronto Muslim Cemetery condemned the daytime shooting, saying cemetery staff prepare graves at the request of community Mosques and have no prior knowledge of the background and circumstances of the requested burial.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the shooting that occurred on Leslie Street at the gates of the Toronto Muslin Cemetery,” a spokesperson said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured, as well as with all the cemetery guests that were leaving the grounds after the burial of their loved one.”

homicide victim

Gidid Mohamed of Toronto. Photo: York Regional Police.


Mohamed was identified as the shooting victim on Tuesday.

“Cemetery staff were not aware of any safety concerns. The well-being of all those attending the Toronto Muslim Cemetery is of great importance to all of us,” the spokesperson continued.

“We want the cemetery to continue to be a safe and respected place.”

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