July 12, 2026
Message of Support and Condolences Following the Tragic Incident at Salsa on St. Clair
To the Board, Management, Staff, Volunteers, and the entire Salsa on St. Clair Community,
On behalf of the Board of Directors, Executive Team, Staff, Volunteers, and the entire Toronto Caribbean Carnival family, we extend our deepest condolences and unwavering support to everyone affected by the tragic shooting that occurred yesterday during the Salsa on St. Clair Festival.
Our hearts are especially with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of violence. No family should have to endure such unimaginable grief while celebrating an event that exists to bring people together through culture, music, dance, and community. We also offer our sincere prayers to those who were injured, for their families, and for everyone who witnessed or was impacted by this heartbreaking incident. We hope for the full and speedy recovery of all those receiving medical care and acknowledge that emotional healing will take time for many throughout the community.
Festivals are places where people come together to celebrate diversity, friendship, and the richness of our communities. Acts of violence have no place at events that are built on inclusion,
joy, and cultural expression. While this tragedy has deeply shaken us all, we remain confident that it will not diminish the spirit, resilience, and unity that define Toronto’s festival community.
We stand in complete solidarity with the organizers of Salsa on St. Clair during this incredibly difficult time. Please know that you are not alone. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival family is here to support you in whatever way we can, whether through collaboration, sharing resources, or simply standing beside you as fellow festival organizers committed to safe, welcoming, and vibrant community celebrations.
We also wish to express our profound appreciation to the first responders who acted swiftly and professionally in response to this emergency. We thank the members of the Toronto Police Service, Toronto Fire Services, Toronto Paramedic Services, emergency communications personnel, and all other emergency response agencies whose courage and dedication helped protect lives and care for those affected.
Our sincere gratitude is also extended to the physicians, nurses, trauma teams, hospital staff, and all healthcare professionals who provided immediate and compassionate medical care to the victims. Your expertise, commitment, and humanity during such difficult circumstances are deeply appreciated.
We recognize the efforts of the investigators, victim support workers, counsellors, community leaders, and countless volunteers who continue to assist those affected and help the community begin the healing process. Their compassion and dedication remind us of the strength that emerges when communities unite in the face of adversity.
As members of Toronto’s festival community, we reaffirm our collective commitment to working together to promote public safety, strengthen partnerships with emergency services, and ensure that our cultural celebrations remain welcoming, secure, and inclusive for everyone.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences and know that our thoughts and prayers remain with every individual, family, volunteer, performer, sponsor, vendor, and organizer affected by this tragedy. May the memories of those whose lives were lost be a lasting source of strength and inspiration, and may comfort, healing, and peace surround all who mourn.
With our deepest sympathy and solidarity,
Sincerely,
The Board of Directors
Executive Team
Staff and Volunteers
Toronto Caribbean Carnival
