Shooting at Toronto’s Salsa on St. Clair Festival Leaves Two Dead, Three Injured

Two people were killed and three others were injured in a shooting near Toronto’s Salsa on St. Clair festival Saturday evening, prompting police to warn the public about an active shooter and urge people to stay away from the area.

Toronto police said officers responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 8:12 p.m. on July 11 near St. Clair Avenue West and Arlington Avenue.

Five people were found suffering from gunshot wounds when emergency crews arrived. Two victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Police had not released information about the conditions of the three surviving victims as of Saturday night.

Police Search for Shooter Near St. Clair Avenue West

Authorities said the shooter remained outstanding following the incident. No suspect description or information about a possible motive had been released.

“Please avoid the area immediately,” police said as officers secured the scene and continued searching for the shooter.

Active Shooter
St Clair Ave W & Arlington Ave
8:12pm
-reports of a shooting
-multiple injuries
-police o/s
-public advised to stay away from the area
-further information to follow#GO1436736
^av

— Toronto Police Operations (@TPSOperations) July 12, 2026

Police also asked people near the festival area to follow emergency instructions and remain clear of the active investigation.

The identities of the victims have not been released. Police have also not confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or whether those involved had any connection to the festival.

Shooting Occurs During Annual Salsa on St. Clair Festival

The shooting occurred during the opening night of the annual TD Salsa on St. Clair festival, a major Toronto street event featuring live music, dancing, food vendors and cultural performances.

The 2026 festival was scheduled for July 11 and 12 along St. Clair Avenue West. The event marked its 22nd year and included programming across the Hillcrest Village neighbourhood.

The shooting prompted a major emergency response during one of the festival’s busiest periods. Police remained in the area Saturday night as investigators gathered evidence and searched for the outstanding shooter.