'National Security Incident': Shots Fired At US Consulate In Toronto; Terrorism Link Being Probed

Last Updated:March 10, 2026, 22:42 IST

Police said that the consulate’s heavily fortified structure, including bulletproof windows and reinforced walls, prevented any penetration.

Police are investigating a shooting at the US Consulate in Toronto, treating the incident as a potential national security matter. Authorities are searching for two suspects who reportedly fired shots at the building before fleeing in a white Honda CRV.

Toronto Police Deputy Chief Frank Barredo said officers were first notified around 5:30 a.m., about an hour after the gunfire occurred. According to witness accounts, the vehicle stopped in front of the consulate at 360 University Avenue, two individuals exited, fired what appeared to be a handgun at the building, then drove away southbound. Police have released an image of the vehicle to aid identification.

Barredo emphasised that the consulate’s heavily fortified structure, including bulletproof windows and reinforced walls, prevented any penetration. No injuries were reported and employees inside may not have noticed the shots. The southbound lanes of University Avenue are closed between Dundas and Queen streets as forensic teams continue collecting evidence.

The investigation is being led by the integrated gun and gang task force with support from the RCMP and other Greater Toronto Area police services. RCMP Chief Superintendent Chris Leather described the shooting as a “national security incident," noting coordination with federal authorities, including CSIS and US counterparts such as the FBI.

“The public should know that there will be no tolerance for intimidation, harassment, or harmful targeting of any communities or individuals in Canada," Leather said. Security measures are being heightened at both the US and Israeli consulates in Toronto and Ottawa.

The consulate shooting follows a series of shootings targeting synagogues in the GTA over the past two weekends. While police have not confirmed a direct link, Barredo said investigators will examine any possible connections.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the act, stressing that the city’s Jewish community has the right to live without fear or violence. Premier Doug Ford called it an “unacceptable act of violence and intimidation" and pledged full support for police efforts.

Police urged anyone with dash camera or security footage from the area to come forward. Authorities have not released further information on the suspects’ identities or the total number of people inside the consulate at the time.

News world 'National Security Incident': Shots Fired At US Consulate In Toronto; Terrorism Link Being Probed

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