Tensions erupted into violence outside Toronto City Hall on Saturday afternoon, resulting in eight arrests and 29 charges. The chaotic scene involved a protest and counter-protest where police officers were reportedly assaulted with eggs, used toilet paper, and plastic bags filled with a substance believed to be urine.
Chaos Erupts at Nathan Phillips Square
According to a Sunday news release from the Toronto Police Service, officers were dispatched to Nathan Phillips Square, near Queen Street West and Bay Street, as tensions between opposing groups escalated. The police were responding to a Canada First "Stop Mass Immigration Rally" that was met by a large group of counter-protesters.
Police stated they attempted to maintain order, but the situation quickly deteriorated. Participants became disruptive and engaged in physical confrontations with each other and, in several instances, with the officers on scene.
Police Condemn 'Disgusting' Attacks
The Toronto Police Association issued a strong statement condemning the behavior of some participants as "completely unacceptable and disgusting." The association detailed that while trying to keep the situation safe, officers were pelted with projectiles.
"Our members were pelted with eggs, used toilet paper, and plastic bags filled with what appeared to be urine. One police officer was punched," the statement read, noting thankfully that no officers sustained serious injuries.
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw echoed this sentiment on social media platform X, stating that violence against police officers, or anyone, is "unacceptable — full stop." He thanked the responding officers, who "deserve to do their jobs without being attacked."
Charges and Court Appearances
Of the eight individuals arrested, three face charges for allegedly assaulting police officers. The accused include a 25-year-old from Milton, a 35-year-old from Toronto, and a 27-year-old from Toronto. Two of them also face serious additional charges:
- Throwing an explosive with intent to cause bodily harm
- Carrying concealed weapons
- Participating in an unlawful assembly while masked
The other arrests included charges for theft, mischief, obstructing a peace officer, disguising oneself with intent, and unlawful assembly. A ninth person was initially arrested but was later released unconditionally after further investigation.
All accused are scheduled to appear in court on the morning of February 26, 2026.
Chief Demkiw reiterated the police service's stance, emphasizing that when officers have lawful grounds, arrests will be made and charges laid against anyone involved in such violence, whether they are protesters or counter-protesters.
