Man Sentenced for Shooting Death of Toronto Police Dog Bingo

UPDATE: A man has been sentenced for his role in a tragic shooting incident that claimed the life of Toronto Police Service (TPS) Dog, Bingo, and left one man dead. The sentencing occurred on September 2, 2025, following a high-profile case that shocked the community after the violent events in Etobicoke in July 2023.

According to Toronto police, the convicted individual fatally shot a Toronto man, fired on responding officers, and ultimately killed Bingo during a chaotic confrontation. The heroic police dog, a trained German Shepherd, was killed while bravely shielding his handler and fellow officers from gunfire. Officials report that Bingo’s actions during the incident prevented further loss of life, earning him the status of a hero among the force and the community.

Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw expressed the profound impact of the case, stating, “Today’s sentencing brings the criminal case to a conclusion, but the loss of PSD Bingo remains deeply felt. He made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our officers and our city. We honour Bingo’s courage, the dedication of our members and the lives impacted by this incident.”

The death of Bingo ignited an outpouring of support from the public, with many residents calling for enhanced recognition of police service animals. A memorial was held shortly after Bingo’s passing, demonstrating the deep bond between the community and its service animals.

The police emphasized that this case serves as a poignant reminder of the daily dangers faced by law enforcement officers. “Bingo was killed in the line of duty, shielding his handler and fellow officers. He will always be remembered as a hero,” the statement read.

As the community reflects on the loss of Bingo, discussions about the treatment and recognition of police dogs are gaining momentum. Residents are advocating for more robust policies to honor the sacrifices made by these brave animals in service to public safety.

The identity of the convicted individual and additional details surrounding the sentencing have not been disclosed at this time, but authorities are committed to transparency as the case concludes. As the story develops, the impact of this incident continues to resonate throughout Toronto, reminding all of the sacrifices made by those in law enforcement, both human and animal alike.

Stay tuned for further updates on this story and its implications for police service animals in Canada.