Toronto police responded to a chaotic scene at Earlscourt Park, located near Caledonia Road and St. Clair Avenue West, after receiving reports of a violent demonstration on the morning of August 5.
The police arrived shortly before 10 a.m. to find a large crowd at the park and reports of a man wielding a knife, along with signs of a physical altercation.
Investigations later revealed that the park was hosting the Festival Eritrea Toronto from August 5 to 7, which included sports and cultural activities. However, a counterprotest group also arrived at the park, leading to clashes between the two groups and resulting in multiple injuries.
According to paramedics, one individual suffered serious stab wounds and was urgently transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Eight others sustained non-life-threatening injuries as a result of the altercation.
Additional individuals were being treated at the scene, although the total number of injured individuals is currently unclear.
Due to the ongoing emergency response, roads in the vicinity have been blocked to facilitate the arrival of emergency vehicles, and a heightened police presence can be observed in the area.
Authorities are actively investigating the incident and working to restore order and safety at the park.
PERSON WITH A KNIFE:
Caledonia Rd + St. Clair Av West
9:58 a.m.
– Large crowd in Earlcourt Park
– Reports of a fight and a person has a knife
– Reports of injuries
– Tents in the park on fire
– Officers are on scene #GO1821099
^lb— Toronto Police Operations (@TPSOperations) August 5, 2023
Alejandra Bravo, the city councillor for the area, expressed her shock and sadness in a statement on social media regarding the violence that erupted during a political protest at Earlscourt Park. In her statement, Bravo acknowledged that the number of victims and the extent of their injuries are still being determined and awaited.
Read my statement on the violent incident and closure of Earlscourt Park 👇🏼 pic.twitter.com/kUAy5JwG9U
— Alejandra Bravo (@BravoDavenport) August 5, 2023