Toronto Police Charge Man in Shooting of Jewish-Owned Restaurant in North York
A 35-year-old man has been charged with gun-related offenses following a shooting at a Jewish-owned restaurant in North York, an incident that police say has deeply affected the local Jewish community's sense of security. The attack occurred at the Old Avenue Restaurant on Avenue Road near Brook Avenue, south of Wilson Avenue, in the early hours of Friday, April 3, 2026.
Details of the Incident and Police Response
According to Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw, the shooter was on foot and fired multiple rounds into the front of the restaurant before fleeing in a dark-colored SUV. The incident was captured on a nearby security camera, and fortunately, no injuries were reported. Chief Demkiw emphasized the psychological toll, stating, "This kind of attack leaves a real impact on people’s sense of security, and in this case particularly, within Toronto’s Jewish community."
Police officers were already in the area as part of enhanced deployment efforts around Jewish neighborhoods during Passover, allowing for a swift response. Supt. Ryan Forde of Organized Crime Enforcement noted that covert assets observed the suspect fleeing, leading to critical information that facilitated a rapid arrest. The suspect, Mohamed Mahdi, 30, of Brampton, was apprehended after a search warrant was executed, and evidence was seized.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Mahdi faces four charges:
- Discharging a restricted or prohibited firearm
- Possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle
The investigation remains active, involving the Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force and the newly formed Counter-Terrorism Security Unit. Chief Supt. Katherine Stephenson of Intelligence Services explained that the unit is examining potential links to extremism or hate, working closely with partners like the Ontario Provincial Police and RCMP. "We are looking at this investigation from all angles," she said, highlighting the rise in shootings targeting synagogues and Jewish-owned businesses.
Community Impact and Statements
Chief Demkiw acknowledged the fear within the Jewish community, stating, "It’s real... people are very afraid to be who they are as Jewish members of our great city." He reassured the community of police support, adding, "We stand with you shoulder-to-shoulder."
Maureen Leshem, speaking on behalf of the restaurant owner, expressed gratitude for the police's swift action. She described the owner as a hardworking individual whose business embodies Canadian values of community and respect. "This arrest matters not only for her, but for all Canadians," Leshem said, warning that such violence poses a broader threat to public safety.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about hate-motivated crimes in Toronto, with authorities vowing to continue proactive measures to protect vulnerable communities and hold perpetrators accountable.
