Toronto police are actively searching for a 14-year-old boy connected to a shooting incident that occurred in Scarborough on a Sunday afternoon, leaving two individuals hospitalized. The shooting took place at the intersection of Tansley Avenue and Paloma Place, located just west of Danforth Road, shortly before 5:15 p.m.
Upon arrival at the scene, authorities discovered two men in their 20s suffering from critical gunshot wounds. Medical personnel promptly transported both victims to the hospital, where their conditions remain serious. This incident has raised significant concern in the local community and prompted a swift police response.
In accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, suspects under the age of 18 cannot be publicly identified. However, Toronto police have obtained judicial authorization to reveal the suspect's identity and release his image to aid in the investigation. The arrested individual has been identified as Valentino Bethel, a 14-year-old from Toronto.
Valentino Bethel faces serious charges that include two counts of attempted murder, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and two counts of discharging a firearm with intent. Additionally, he is facing charges related to possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle and failing to comply with a release order, among other offenses.
Authorities describe Bethel as standing six feet one inch tall and weighing 150 pounds. Due to the nature of the incident, police have classified him as armed and dangerous, which has raised alarms regarding public safety.
The judicial authorization permitting the release of his image and identity will expire on September 9 at 1 p.m., emphasizing the urgency for information from the public that could aid in his apprehension.
The ongoing investigation continues to unfold as community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or pertinent information to law enforcement. The incident has prompted discussions on youth crime and gun violence in Toronto, highlighting the need for greater preventive measures and community engagement.
