What to know
- Toronto police Const. Marc Pinizzotto died after being shot during a search warrant operation in North York.
- Investigators say the warrant was linked to a broader probe into multiple shootings, including an incident at the U.S. Consulate.
- Mayor Olivia Chow, Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Mark Carney have all shared condolences and praised the officer’s service.
- The death comes days after OPP Const. Tarun Bali was killed in the line of duty in Hearst.
Political leaders across Canada are expressing their condolences following the death of a Toronto police officer who was fatally shot while executing a search warrant in North York.
Const. Marc Pinizzotto was shot Thursday morning during a search warrant operation and later died in hospital, according to Toronto police.
Investigators say the warrant was connected to a broader investigation into several shootings, including an incident at the U.S. Consulate in March.
Police say a suspect was also shot during the exchange and taken to hospital. Another suspect, 19-year-old Zara Jabbi, remains outstanding.
Tributes and messages of support have since poured in from municipal, provincial and federal leaders.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow described the officer’s death as heartbreaking news for the city.
“There are no words that can ease the pain for the officer’s family, loved ones, and colleagues across the service. This grief is shared across the entire city,” Chow said in a statement posted to social media.
Chow said Pinizzotto’s death serves as a devastating reminder of the sacrifices police officers make every day to protect their communities.
“We are grateful for all who serve and continue to stand with those who keep our communities safe. We honour their courage, sacrifice and dedication,” she said.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford also offered his condolences.
“On behalf of the people of Ontario, I extend my sincere condolences to the family, loved ones and fellow service members of Toronto Police Service Constable Marc Pinizzotto, who was killed in the line of duty today,” Ford wrote on social media.
“Today is a sobering reminder of the sacrifices and risks faced by police officers across Ontario every day as they work to keep our province safe.”
Pinizzotto’s death comes just days after Ontario Provincial Police Const. Tarun Bali was killed in the line of duty in Hearst.
Bali died Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle while officers attempted to arrest 18-year-old Justin Veronneau, who had allegedly escaped from a hospital.
Veronneau has been charged with first-degree murder, dangerous driving and flight from police.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also shared his condolences, recognizing the loss of both officers.
“Canada mourns the loss of these brave officers who dedicated their lives to protecting their communities,” Carney wrote on social media.
“My prayers are with their loved ones, their fellow officers, and their communities in this time of grief.”
