Toronto Pearson Airport Shooting: Man Killed in Police Encounter at Terminal 1, Confirms SIU
Toronto, April 25 — A tragic incident unfolded early Thursday morning at Toronto Pearson International Airport when a 30-year-old man was fatally shot by Peel Regional Police officers at Terminal 1. Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU), which oversees incidents involving police conduct, confirmed the death and has launched a full investigation into the matter.
According to the SIU, the incident occurred shortly before 7 a.m. in the departures area of Terminal 1. Peel Regional Police were reportedly responding to a call about a man in distress who was inside an SUV parked at the airport.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers located the man and attempted to engage with him. However, the SIU stated that preliminary information suggests the man produced a firearm. In response, three police officers discharged their weapons.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene. Fortunately, none of the officers involved in the incident were injured. The SIU also confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to public safety at the airport.
The area around Terminal 1, including access routes such as Highway 409, was temporarily closed to ensure the safety of passengers and to allow investigators to conduct a thorough examination of the scene. Normal airport operations have since resumed, though travelers were advised to expect possible delays.
The SIU, an independent civilian agency, is mandated to investigate all incidents involving police where there has been a death, serious injury, or allegations of sexual assault. As part of their investigation, they will interview witnesses, review surveillance footage, and examine forensic evidence to determine the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.
This incident has raised serious questions about mental health crisis interventions and the use of force by law enforcement in sensitive locations such as airports. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Authorities have urged anyone with information or footage related to the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING:
-T1 at Pearson International Airport
-Large police presence.
-Adult ml shot.
-Officer is uninjured.
–@SIUOntario has been contacted.
-This is an isolated incident and there are no known threats to public safety.
-Expect Delays at the Terminal.…— Peel Regional Police (@PeelPolice) April 24, 2025