Two More Youths Charged After Toronto Police Officer Struck by Stolen Car

Two more youths have been charged in connection with an alleged auto theft incident late Sunday night in which a Toronto Police officer was struck by a stolen car. The new charges come after the driver, a 12-year-old boy, was previously charged.

Details of the Incident

Toronto Police reported that a 12-year-old from Toronto has been charged with theft of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and dangerous operation of a conveyance. Additionally, a 14-year-old youth from Toronto has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

The incident occurred on Sunday at 11:38 p.m. in the Donlands Avenue-O'Connor Drive area. Police responded to a call about an auto theft and attempted to stop a stolen vehicle. It is alleged that the driver of the stolen car struck an officer. An officer discharged their firearm, and the vehicle fled the scene.

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Injuries and Arrests

The officer was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries and has since been released. The driver was arrested a short distance away and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver, a 12-year-old boy from Toronto, faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, dangerous operation, failure to stop for police, assault on a peace officer, and leaving the scene of an accident.

Investigation by SIU

The Ontario Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has taken over the investigation. Sources identified the officer involved as Const. Arlind Cakiqi, who was reportedly shaken after learning the age of the driver. He was treated for an injured arm, back, and other issues and is expected to undergo further assessment.

Context of Recent Police Incidents

This incident occurred days after Toronto Police Const. Marc Pinizzotto was killed while serving a search warrant in North York. Pinizzotto, a member of the Emergency Task Force, was shot by occupants suspected of involvement in a series of high-profile shootings, including the March 10 shooting at the U.S. Consulate on University Avenue. Additionally, a funeral for OPP Const. Tarun Bali is scheduled for Thursday at the Mississauga Sports and Entertainment Centre after he was killed on duty in northern Ontario last week.