‘It’s crazy’: Thornhill gym of Iranian-Canadian activist hit by bullets

A bullet hole is seen in the door of Saliwan Boxing at 7027 Yonge St. in Thornhill. (Simon Sheehan/CP24)

A Thornhill boxing gym associated with a well-known activist for Iranian freedom was hit several times by bullets early Sunday morning in the wake of a major demonstration in support of the American and Israeli military strikes that killed Iran’s leader.

Salar Gholami, its owner, told CTV News in an interview that he believes his business was targeted only hours after he was among a large crowd of people celebrating the military strikes – but that he won’t be intimidated.

“It’s crazy, man, it’s crazy,” said Gholami, when reached by CTV News on Sunday at another rally opposite the U.S. Consulate in Toronto, saying he counted some 70 bullets at the scene.

“Our gym is just a regular gym. Girls, teenagers, kids. The shooting at the gym, it’s random, and it’s so dangerous,” Gholami said.

Video shows bullet holes and broken glass at the front of the Saliwan Boxing at 7027 Yonge St., just north of Steeles Avenue.

YRP investigating shooting

York Regional Police said in a statement they are investigating and are asking for members of the public to supply any surveillance footage.

“The premise shows evidence of gunfire directed at the building. The building was unoccupied at the time of the incident. There were no reported injuries,” a statement reads.

“The motive behind the shooting is unknown and there is no suspect information at this time.”

Iranian leader killed on Saturday

On Saturday, U.S. and Israeli air strikes killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and threw the future of the Islamic Republic into uncertainty.

Demonstrators in Toronto placed flowers at the front of the U.S. consulate on University Avenue on Sunday afternoon and chanted, “Thank you, U.S.A.”

Many waved the Lion and Sun flags associated with the previous regime of the Shah of Iran, and held up photos of the crown prince in exile, hoping that he can lead a provisional government and a referendum on the country’s future.

Gholami said he will not stop leading rallies even after the shooting.

“This is our duty. We are coming outside every day until the Islamic Republic collapses,” he said.