Deadly burst of gunfire rocked Toronto’s Lawrence Heights neighborhood Tuesday night, leaving one man dead and five others injured in what police are calling a possible gang-related shooting.
The victim, a paraplegic man in a wheelchair believed to be closely linked to Toronto rapper Top5, was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident unfolded just after 8:30 p.m. near Flemington Road and Zachary Court, not far from Ranee Avenue and Allen Road, a normally quiet area that has now become the center of a major police investigation.
Emergency crews responded swiftly to multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired. Upon arrival, paramedics began treating several victims for a range of injuries, from critical to serious. Authorities later confirmed five individuals were transported to hospital with gunshot wounds that are not considered life-threatening.
The shooting occurred just days after Top5 — a figure frequently surrounded by controversy in Toronto’s hip-hop community — was released after first-degree murder charges against him were stayed. The timing has fueled speculation that the attack may be connected to ongoing gang tensions or could be a retaliatory strike.
While Toronto Police have yet to name any suspects, nor have they made any arrests, they’ve launched a full-scale investigation. A mobile command post has been set up near the scene, where officers are gathering surveillance footage, speaking to witnesses, and canvassing nearby buildings for leads.
Law enforcement officials are urging residents to remain cautious and avoid the area while the investigation continues. Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to the Toronto Police Service or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
This latest shooting adds to a concerning rise in gun violence across North York, reigniting urgent discussions about public safety, youth outreach, and the need for deeper investments in gang prevention programs.
