On Tuesday afternoon, a distressing incident unfolded at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) when a vehicle struck multiple pedestrians on a popular walkway, resulting in injuries and a police investigation. The event occurred around 1:54 p.m. on Nelson Mandela Walk, a pedestrian-only area connecting Gould Street and Gerrard Street East.
According to Toronto police, the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run did not remain at the scene. Eyewitness accounts revealed a chaotic scene as students reacted to the unfolding crisis. Noor, a student who witnessed the incident, recounted, "I was just coming out of the campus building and going to another one and I just saw these two women running at me and telling me to run. I’m shocked; it’s so scary that this can happen … No one expects this to happen on campus."
Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, assessing the injuries of the four pedestrians involved. Two individuals were transported to a local hospital, one with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while the other sustained minor injuries. The remaining two victims were treated on-site and declined further medical assistance.
In the aftermath, police issued a description of the suspect vehicle: a dark green sedan with a cracked windshield, last seen fleeing eastbound on Gould Street towards Church Street. As of now, authorities have not disclosed any license plate information. The police have urged anyone with information about the incident to step forward and assist with their investigation.
TMU responded to the incident with a statement expressing concern for the injured students. The university reassured the campus community that support services were available for those affected. “Our thoughts are with those who have been injured and impacted by this incident,” the statement read. “We remind our community members that university support services are available for those who need them.”
The university also issued a safety alert, advising students and staff to avoid the area around Nelson Mandela Walk due to the ongoing police investigation. In a reassuring note, TMU confirmed that classes, labs, and exams would proceed as scheduled, indicating no disruption to academic activities.
This incident has raised concerns among students and faculty about safety on campus. Many expressed their shock and disbelief that such a dangerous event could occur in what is typically considered a safe environment. The university community is now grappling with the implications of this hit-and-run incident, reflecting on the need for increased safety measures.
As the investigation continues, police are working diligently to gather more information and locate the driver responsible for this alarming event. The community remains on high alert, hoping for swift justice for the injured pedestrians and reassurance that safety protocols will be reinforced.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of urban life and the importance of community vigilance. As more details emerge, the university and law enforcement agencies are committed to keeping the public informed and ensuring the safety of all individuals on campus.
In light of this event, the TMU community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. This collaborative approach will help enhance safety measures and foster a supportive environment for all students and staff.
As the situation develops, updates will be provided to the public to ensure transparency and maintain trust between the university and its community members. The hope is that through collective efforts, incidents like this can be prevented in the future, preserving the sanctity and safety of educational spaces.
Authorities are expected to continue their search for the suspect vehicle and the driver involved in this hit-and-run incident. The community is urged to stay tuned for further updates as the investigation unfolds.
