Toronto Police Release Identity of Woodbine Mall Shooting Victim
Toronto Police have officially identified the individual who lost his life in a shocking weekend shooting at Woodbine Mall. The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight, has sent ripples of concern through the local community and marks a grim statistic for the city.
Details of the Fatal Incident
On Sunday, authorities confirmed that the victim was 37-year-old Chanda Kumar Raja Nandakumar, a resident of Brampton. The tragic event occurred on Saturday afternoon at approximately 3:30 p.m. Police officers responded to an urgent call reporting a shooting in the mall's parking lot, located at the intersection of Rexdale Boulevard and Highway 27.
Upon arrival, first responders discovered a male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics swiftly transported the injured man to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his life-threatening injuries shortly after arrival.
Police Investigation and Community Appeal
Inspector Errol Watson addressed the media outside the mall on Saturday evening, acknowledging the public's apprehension. "I can understand how a shooting like this, especially at a mall, can cause concern for the safety of the public," Watson stated. He emphasized that officers are actively canvassing the area for witnesses, surveillance footage, and any potential evidence that could aid the investigation.
The Toronto Police Homicide Unit has now assumed control of the case, which remains ongoing and active. According to initial reports, the suspect or suspects fled the scene in a vehicle immediately following the shooting. No detailed descriptions or further information about the perpetrators have been released to the public at this time.
A Broader Context of Violence
This homicide represents the third recorded murder in Toronto for the year 2026, and notably, the second to occur within a span of just three days. Earlier in the week, on Thursday, a 16-year-old boy named Kian Sam was fatally shot at a Tim Hortons restaurant in the Scarborough area. That victim also died in hospital a short time after the attack.
The consecutive incidents have heightened concerns about public safety and gun violence in different neighborhoods across the Greater Toronto Area.
Call for Public Assistance
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information related to the Woodbine Mall shooting to come forward. Individuals can contact the Toronto Police directly at 416-808-7400. For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
The investigation continues as authorities work to piece together the events leading to this tragic loss of life and to bring those responsible to justice.
