OTTAWA - The new federal minister responsible for tackling gun violence says he has been in touch with Toronto's mayor and police chief to discuss Sunday's deadly shooting in the city and how Ottawa can support efforts to stop a growing wave of incidents rattling Torontonians.
Bill Blair, minister of border security and organized crime reduction, made the comments on Twitter as other federal politicians tweeted their thoughts and support to victims of the shooting in Toronto's Greektown area.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described the shooting as a terrible tragedy, but added that the people of Toronto are strong, resilient and brave, and Canadians will be there to support them at this difficult time.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh says his heart goes out to all those affected by the shooting, including emergency personnel who were the first to respond.
Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, whose department has been overseeing a federal program aimed at reducing guns and gangs in Canada, similarly thanked first responders for their work and said he had been in touch with Toronto's mayor but didn't offer further details.
Liberal MP Julie Dabrusin, member for the area where the shooting occurred, says she is shocked and saddened by the tragedy and has contacted police for more information.
I just spoke to Chief Saunders and @TorontosMayor about the tragic events on the Toronto Danforth last night to discuss how we can support their efforts to end the violence. We stand united in our resolve to keep our streets safe.
— Bill Blair (@BillBlair) July 23, 2018
My thoughts are with everyone affected by the terrible tragedy on the Danforth last night in Toronto, and may the injured make a full recovery. The people of Toronto are strong, resilient and brave - and we’ll be there to support you through this difficult time.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 23, 2018
My heart breaks for our city of Toronto right now
— Jagmeet Singh (@theJagmeetSingh) July 23, 2018
totally devastated by the news out of the Danforth
our hearts are with all those impacted by the horrific shooting, along with all first responders after this tragic violence
A tragic night on the #Danforth in Toronto. Thank you to the first responders - police, fire, paramedics- who rushed to scene to assist. Have been in touch with @JohnTory's office; @TorontoPolice leading ongoing investigation into this senseless brutality.
— Ralph Goodale (@RalphGoodale) July 23, 2018
My thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones. Thank you to the first responders. Follow @TorontoPolice for updates. There is a shelter bus at Pape and Danforth for witnesses.
— Julie Dabrusin (@juliedabrusin) July 23, 2018