Toronto Busker Robbed at Gunpoint While Livestreaming Performance
A Toronto busker, who performs under the name J.soul, was robbed of his donations at gunpoint while livestreaming his music at a TTC subway station last week. The 28-year-old musician, who wishes to remain anonymous as a crime victim, expressed that the community's response has been overwhelmingly positive despite the traumatic event.
Incident Details at Finch West Station
On March 5, J.soul was performing with his acoustic guitar at Finch West Station, broadcasting live to his followers. Around 11 p.m., three individuals in hoodies approached him. Two wore masks, and the third pulled up his mask during the incident. Initially thinking they might donate, J.soul soon realized they were stealing cash and coins from his guitar case.
"They came up and then they reached down toward my guitar case," he recalled. "When I saw them, they were taking the cash and the coins I had." The trio laughed and joked as they walked away, prompting J.soul to confront them. When he attempted to retrieve the money, one suspect brandished a firearm, forcing him to back down.
Police Response and Arrests
After reporting the theft and threat to a TTC supervisor, Toronto Police were called. Investigators obtained surveillance footage and the livestream video from J.soul's phone. On Monday, police announced the arrest of Meekal Ali, 19, and a 16-year-old boy, both charged with robbery with a firearm. A third suspect remains at large.
This marks the third time J.soul has been robbed while busking on the TTC, with previous incidents involving quick thefts at different stations. He plans to take precautions in the future, such as removing donations from his case promptly.
Community Support and Resilience
Despite the negative experience, J.soul has been heartened by an outpouring of support from the community. Many have reached out via social media and email, offering encouragement and donations. "Toronto is behind you," one supporter wrote. "I sent you some money! Keep pushing strong." Others expressed sympathy and praised his positive attitude.
J.soul continues to respond to messages, thanking people for their generosity. He remains committed to busking in Toronto, emphasizing that the incident will not deter his passion for music. "I will keep busking on the TTC and elsewhere in the city," he said, highlighting his determination to move forward with enhanced safety measures.
