Urgent Update: North York Drivers Targeted by Pellet Gun Attacks

Urgent Update: Drivers in North York are facing a disturbing threat as a pellet gun-wielding suspect targets stationary vehicles along Yonge Street. Since February, authorities have recorded 12 incidents involving projectiles fired at drivers, leaving victims shaken and fearing for their safety.

Momtaz Eqban Nesar, a victim of one of the attacks, shared his harrowing experience. In February, as he sat idle in his car, a projectile shattered his driver’s side window. Though unharmed, Nesar expressed the anxiety that has followed. “Everyone is saying you’re lucky,” he told Global News, showcasing the damage done to his vehicle. “When I go out with my wife and kids, it’s not like before that happened. I was relaxed.”

The targeted attacks have occurred on the east side of Yonge Street, specifically between Sheppard and Greenfield Avenues. The most recent incident took place on September 6, with victims reporting that the assailant approaches their vehicles before firing a round from a vehicle traveling northbound.

Acting Toronto Police Det. Sgt. Andrew Lipkus confirmed that the perpetrator is not using traditional firearms; instead, the weapon is a less lethal pellet or BB gun. “The rounds are all the same: they’re silver … I would classify them as ball bearings, about a centimetre in diameter,” Lipkus stated. Notably, in approximately half of the incidents, victims were inside their vehicles at the time of the attack.

Tim Borden, a local who parked in the danger zone, expressed disbelief at the potential risk. “I’m waiting for a friend getting a burger. I don’t expect anybody to hurl a projectile at me,” he said. Meanwhile, nearby resident Jennifer Hoffman speculated that the shooter might be targeting vehicles out of frustration over drivers blocking the lane. “I hope the guy or woman who does it is apprehended,” she urged.

With a growing number of attacks, police are escalating their investigation and appealing to the public for assistance. They are seeking any dashcam footage or images that could help identify the suspect. “With these projectiles, it’s a matter of time when someone is seriously injured,” Lipkus warned, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Authorities remain uncertain whether they are dealing with a single suspect or multiple individuals. The modus operandi is still under investigation, but the pattern of targeting vehicles in a specific area is evident.

As this story develops, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Toronto Police. The potential for serious injury makes it imperative that the suspect is apprehended quickly. Share this information widely to keep your community informed and protected.