A Toronto police officer was shot early Thursday morning while responding to calls for an e-bike robbery.
Police said the call occurred around 3:21 a.m. near Shuter and Sherbourne streets. A male victim was reportedly riding his e-bike when he was approached by two male suspects, who pushed him off the bike and assaulted him.
One of the suspects fled on the victim’s e-bike and was pursued by police up Sherbourne Street.
The suspect did not stop for police and then got off the e-bike. A foot pursuit ensued in the Bloor Street and Sherbourne, and during the arrest, police say the suspect pulled out a gun and shot an officer. He also allegedly tried to grab an officer’s taser.
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Other officers responding to the scene applied a tourniquet to the injured officer’s leg in an attempt to stop the bleeding. Paramedics arrived a short time later and transported the officer to hospital, where he remains in serious but non life-threatening condition.
The suspect was arrested shortly after and a firearm was recovered.
Stefano Edwards, 27, of Peterborough, has been charged with attempted murder, robbery with an offensive weapon and carrying a concealed firearm, among other offences.
Police say Edwards was out on conditions for previous weapons offences, and wanted on two separate warrants in Peel and Waterloo.
Speaking outside St. Michael’s Hospital where the injured officer is recovering, Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue called the incident “an extraordinary and deeply concerning level of violence,” adding that “it is a stark reminder of the violence officers can face while doing their jobs and protecting our communities.”
Clayton Campbell, Toronto Police Association president, echoed that sentiment. He said recent violence against members is “unacceptable,” adding that over 600 members have been injured on the job this year.
Pogue confirmed that officers did not fire their weapons during the incident.
Police are still looking for the second suspect. No description was made available.
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