The Toronto Police Service has announced the arrest of three individuals and is actively searching for a fourth suspect following a high-stakes firearm investigation.
The incident unfolded yesterday, on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at approximately 4:20 p.m., in the area of Dundas Street East and Sackville Street. According to police reports, officers were conducting a routine traffic stop when the situation quickly escalated. The officers attempted to stop a black Mercedes-Benz; however, the vehicle sped off, setting off a dangerous sequence of events that put both law enforcement and the public at risk.
As the fleeing vehicle attempted to escape, it collided with a TTC streetcar and another vehicle, causing significant damage. The four occupants of the vehicle then abandoned the car and attempted to flee the scene on foot. The police launched an immediate search of the surrounding area.
Within a short time, officers successfully apprehended two of the suspects. The third suspect was located and arrested following an extensive search involving specialized units. The fourth suspect, however, managed to evade capture and remains at large. The suspect has been described by police as a Black male wearing a grey sweater with a small white logo on the front left chest area, light grey or white sweatpants, white shoes, and a black balaclava.
During the investigation, police discovered a Norinco Type 97 Assault Rifle inside the abandoned vehicle.
The three individuals who were arrested have since been charged with multiple firearm-related offenses.
Rahime Francis, 18, of Toronto, faces a lengthy list of charges, including Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in a Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Weapon, and three counts of Careless Storage of Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device. Francis made a court appearance at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on Monday, August 19, 2024.
Kwabena Duodu, 21, of Toronto, has been charged with similar offenses, including Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance and Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm. Duodu also appeared in court at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre on August 19, 2024.
A 17-year-old female, whose identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, has been charged with several offenses, including Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm and Possession of a Loaded Prohibited or Restricted Firearm. She appeared before the Ontario Court of Justice on the same date.
Police continue to appeal to the public for assistance in locating the fourth suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Toronto Police Service at 416-808-5100 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).