Ontario police are investigating a shooting at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto early Tuesday and are trying to find out who was responsible and why. While the investigation continues, Ontario Premier Doug Ford suggested, without providing evidence, that terrorist sleeper cells could be involved.
Speaking at Queen’s Park, Ford said police have not told him there is any connection between the consulate shooting and several recent shootings at synagogues in the Toronto area. However, he shared his personal opinion that sleeper cells may exist in countries around the world, including Canada, and said those responsible for violence should be caught and jailed.
Later, Chief Supt. Chris Leather of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said he has no information confirming the presence of sleeper cells in Canada. He added that Canada’s intelligence agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, and national security teams continue to investigate threats.
Police say security will be increased at embassies and consulates in the Toronto and Ottawa areas while the investigation continues.
Authorities have previously disrupted suspected terror plots in the Greater Toronto Area. In 2024, the RCMP charged a father and son with terrorism-related offences after investigators alleged they were planning a violent attack in Toronto linked to the extremist group Islamic State.
