Chaos at Toronto Pearson: Terminal 1 Locked Down After Police-Involved Shooting Leaves One in Critical Condition
TORONTO, ON – April 24, 2025 — Terminal 1 at Toronto Pearson International Airport was thrust into chaos early Thursday morning following a police-involved shooting that left one person in critical condition, triggered a full lockdown of the Departures area, and caused significant travel disruptions across the region.
Sudden Violence Erupts at Canada’s Busiest Airport
The incident unfolded just before 7 a.m., when reports of gunfire inside the Departures area of Terminal 1 sent shockwaves through the airport. Witnesses described hearing a series of “loud popping noises” near the baggage claim area, followed by a panicked rush as travelers scrambled for cover.
Within minutes, Peel Regional Police swarmed the terminal, with more than 30 police cruisers and emergency response units converging on the scene. According to multiple eyewitnesses, paramedics were seen administering CPR to an individual lying on the ground, believed to be the person shot during the incident. That individual was reportedly taken to a hospital in critical condition.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim or the exact sequence of events that led to the shooting. However, the Special Investigations Unit (SIU)—the agency that oversees cases involving serious injury or death linked to police action—has confirmed it is now investigating the matter as a police-involved shooting.
Terminal Lockdown and Traffic Mayhem
The shooting triggered an immediate lockdown of Terminal 1’s Departures area. As a security precaution, access to the airport via Highway 409 was completely shut down, forcing many travelers to abandon their vehicles along the shoulder and walk to the terminal, luggage in tow.
Inside the airport, operations were severely impacted. Flights were delayed, some canceled, and passengers already past security were left in limbo. Authorities have since lifted the full lockdown, but a heavy police presence remains, and portions of the terminal continue to be restricted as the investigation unfolds.
Passenger Accounts: “It Was Like a War Zone”
“It was absolute chaos,” said traveler Rajiv Malhotra, who was arriving at Terminal 1 when the shots rang out. “I saw people ducking behind luggage carousels and running out the doors. There was screaming. It felt like something out of a war zone.”
Another witness, Stephanie Langford, described the terrifying moment she realized something was wrong: “I heard what sounded like three or four gunshots, then people just started running. Airport staff tried to keep us calm, but no one knew what was going on.”
What We Know So Far
- One person is in critical condition following a shooting in Terminal 1’s Departures area.
- The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is now leading the inquiry, confirming a police officer discharged a firearm.
- The victim’s identity and the reason for police engagement remain undisclosed.
- Highway 409 access to the airport was closed, and traffic is still being redirected.
- Flight disruptions are ongoing; passengers are urged to contact airlines before heading to the airport.
Calls for Transparency and Airport Security Review
As the public waits for further details, questions are emerging about how a shooting could occur at one of the nation’s most secure transportation hubs. Advocacy groups are already calling for an in-depth review of airport security protocols, especially concerning police engagement within passenger areas.
“We need answers,” said Marla Denis, a spokesperson for Canadian Air Travel Watch. “Incidents like this not only jeopardize lives but also undermine public trust in our airport security systems.”
Ongoing Investigation
The SIU has deployed investigators, forensic specialists, and interview teams to the scene. A full report will be issued following the conclusion of their investigation.
In the meantime, Toronto Pearson Airport is working to restore normal operations while assisting travelers affected by the lockdown.
Check back for updates as more information becomes available.