TORONTO — A suspect in a hit-and-run that injured five people on Toronto Metropolitan University's downtown campus last month has been arrested and charged with multiple offences, including attempted murder, police said on Friday.
Police initially reported that four people were injured on April 15 when the suspect allegedly drove a vehicle onto a pedestrian walkway, but they later identified a fifth victim who sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The hit-and-run resulted in two victims being hospitalized, while the other two suffered minor injuries.
The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Ryan Petroff, was apprehended by police on Thursday, May 8, following a road rage incident in the Morningside Avenue and Highway 401 area. Investigators revealed that he was arrested on "numerous" outstanding warrants.
Petroff is facing a litany of charges, including attempted murder, three counts of dangerous conveyance of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm, two counts of assault with a weapon, and possession of property obtained by crime. Notably, the green Honda involved in the hit-and-run was reported to have stolen license plates.
In total, Petroff faces 24 charges on outstanding warrants, including sexual assault with a weapon and uttering threats to cause death. Police believe that the hit-and-run was a targeted attack aimed at a specific individual on the TMU pathway known as the Nelson Mandela Walk. The victims were reportedly sitting on a bench when the vehicle struck them, and none of the injured parties were students or staff at the university.
Toronto Metropolitan University issued a statement following the incident, indicating that planters have been placed at the main entrances to the Nelson Mandela Walk. The university noted that barriers have always been in place at another pedestrian-only area of the campus located at Victoria and Bond streets. They emphasized that pedestrian streets, including the Nelson Mandela Walk, are city property and must remain accessible to emergency vehicles.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 9, 2025. The investigation into the incident continues as authorities seek to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene that unfolded on April 15. Noor Almusa, a third-year student at TMU, recounted her experience, saying, "It was really fast, really traumatic. I didn’t know who to talk to or what to do afterwards. I was just coming out of the building and I see two women yelling at me to run and move out of the way." Another student, Isaac Meng, recalled hearing a loud crashing sound and seeing one person lying on the ground who appeared to be unconscious. He remarked, "They are all scared, and they feel that it was pretty crazy."
As the investigation progresses, police have yet to comment on the relationship between Petroff and the intended target of the attack. They have, however, confirmed that the incident is not terrorism-related.
The arrest of Petroff has raised questions about safety on campus and the measures being taken to protect students and community members. The university has stated that it is committed to ensuring the safety of its campus and is working closely with law enforcement to address any concerns.
Community members have expressed their shock and concern over the incident, with many voicing their hopes for a swift resolution to the case. The university community is rallying together, emphasizing the importance of support during such a difficult time.
As the legal proceedings move forward, it remains unclear what the future holds for Ryan Petroff. The charges against him are serious, and if convicted, he could face significant prison time.
In the meantime, the victims of the hit-and-run are recovering from their injuries, and the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this unsettling event. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward as they work to piece together the events of that fateful day.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about public safety and the need for measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and addressing the concerns of the community.
With the arrest of Ryan Petroff, police hope to bring some closure to the victims and their families, while also sending a clear message that such violent acts will not be tolerated.
As this story develops, the Toronto Metropolitan University community is reminded of the importance of vigilance and support for one another during challenging times.
