Toronto, Ontario – A 29-year-old Toronto police officer was injured in a shooting on Wednesday evening during a robbery investigation, bringing attention once again to the dangers officers face while serving the community.
The officer, who has served for five and a half years, was shot in the abdomen around 5:30 p.m. near Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue.
He was rushed to a trauma facility with critical but non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.
Tibor Orgona, 21, of Toronto, has been arrested and is now facing 17 charges, including attempted murder, three counts of robbery, and multiple firearms-related offenses.
Orgona, who had a previous criminal history, was reportedly out on bail at the time of the shooting, sparking public outcry over the legal system’s handling of repeat offenders.
Toronto Police Association President Jon Reid expressed his frustration, stating, “The current situation offers little to no deterrent to criminals, especially violent, gun-wielding ones.”
Marlene Watson Byfield shared her thoughts on social media, offering prayers for the officer’s “speedy recovery” and acknowledging the daily risks officers take.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also extended her wishes for the officer’s recovery, recognizing the sacrifices made by frontline officers to protect the city.