Toronto police were deployed to the U.S. Consulate in downtown Toronto early Monday after investigators found evidence suggesting a firearm had been discharged near the building. Authorities reported that the incident occurred shortly before 5 a.m. on University Avenue, with officers securing the area and conducting an on-scene inquiry.
The U.S. Consulate, located on University Avenue, was taped off as officers established a perimeter around the precinct. It is not yet clear whether any individuals were injured, or if a suspect has been identified. Police described the period as preliminary while forensic work continues.
This event marks at least the second time the consulate has been targeted in recent months; a separate shooting was reported at the same location on March 10, according to investigators. Monday’s discovery of firearm discharge evidence has prompted the local force to heighten its presence around the consulate as they review surveillance footage and collect potential shell casings or other forensic clues.
Authorities urged residents to avoid the area as a precaution while officers conducted their inspection. There were no earlier confirmations of a security threat to the public beyond the immediate area surrounding the consulate, and no additional details about the motive or potential suspects have been released.
City officials and consulate representatives were not immediately available for comment. Police say they will release further updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available from forensic teams and any security camera footage.
The incident underscores heightened attention to security around foreign diplomatic sites in Toronto, following past episodes at the same location. Police emphasized that the public’s safety remains the priority as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged discharge.