Crime
6 people shot after 3 suspects opened fire indiscriminately at Piper Arms STC in Scarborough
Toronto police officials say they are at a loss for words after reviewing security footage of a violent mass shooting that took place inside a Scarborough pub late Friday night.
According to authorities, three masked gunmen—one armed with an assault rifle and two wielding handguns—stormed the newly opened Piper Arms Pub, near Scarborough Town Centre, and indiscriminately opened fire on patrons inside.
The establishment had been hosting its grand opening celebration when the attack occurred.
Emergency services began receiving multiple 911 calls just after 10:30 p.m., prompting a rapid police response.
Upon arrival, officers discovered 12 individuals injured inside the pub. Six victims had suffered gunshot wounds, while six others sustained injuries from shattered glass and debris.
Despite the severity of the attack, officials confirmed that none of the injuries are life-threatening.
“By the grace of God, there have been no fatalities,” said Superintendent Paul MacIntyre during a press briefing. Victims range in age from their 20s to mid-50s, he added.
The three suspects fled the scene before police arrived and remain at large. At this time, no suspect descriptions or vehicle details have been released, and the weapons used in the attack have not been recovered.
During a media scrum outside the crime scene, reporters questioned whether the shooting could be linked to ongoing tow truck turf wars or if it was a random act of violence.
“We’re exploring all possibilities, but we have not confirmed any motive at this time,” MacIntyre stated. Investigators are reviewing the backgrounds of the pub’s owners and patrons to determine if any links exist.
According to an Instagram post from Piper Arms Pub, the Scarborough location had officially opened its doors at noon on March 7. The shooting took place approximately ten hours later.
Eyewitness reports indicate that chaos erupted as the gunmen fired into the crowd, forcing many patrons to take cover under chairs or drop to the ground in an effort to protect themselves.
Superintendent MacIntyre described the disturbing footage captured by security cameras, emphasizing the cold and calculated nature of the attack.
“We’ve seen a lot of shootings, a lot of video evidence over the years, but this… these men just looked at the crowd and opened fire,” he said.
The crime scene inside the pub, he continued, was haunting.
“There’s blood all over the floor… blood in the basement. Drinks are still on the tables. Food is still on the tables. People’s purses, shoes—everything is still there,” he said.
Shortly after midnight on Saturday, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow addressed the incident, expressing deep concern.
“I am deeply troubled by this horrific shooting. My thoughts are with the victims and their families,” she wrote on social media.
As the investigation continues, authorities say they are dedicating all available resources to identifying and apprehending the suspects.
“We are leaving no stone unturned,” MacIntyre assured.
Police are urging anyone with information or video footage from the scene to come forward by contacting Toronto Police Services or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
This remains an active and developing investigation, with further updates expected as new details emerge.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.