Suspect Apprehended for Threatening to Shoot Toronto Mayoral Candidates

On Thursday night, Toronto police announced the arrest of Junior Francois Lavagesse, a 29-year-old man suspected of making threats to shoot mayoral candidates in the city.

This incident resulted in the cancellation of a debate at the Ontario College of Art & Design University and caused some contenders to pause their campaigns out of safety concerns.

Several mayoral candidates spoke out about the threats they had received, including Brad Bradford who confirmed receiving a death threat that prompted him to prioritize the safety of his family and campaign team.

Sadly, there has been a serious threat made toward candidates running in the mayoral election. We have closed our campaign office until the police advise that the suspect has been apprehended. I have also told the organizers of tonight's debate that we will not be attending— Josh Matlow (@JoshMatlow) June 1, 2023

Josh Matlow's campaign office was shut down in response to the threat, while Olivia Chow addressed her supporters via social media stating that she and her camp were safe but condemned such incidents during an election season. Mitzie Hunter commended Toronto police for their prompt action while Ana Bailão reaffirmed her determination not be intimidated as a contender for mayor despite being aware of the threats issued.

The debate which had been planned for months by local associations was cancelled due to security concerns but members expressed their disappointments regarding all the hard work put into organizing it. In light of this disturbing event, many have praised Toronto Police for their quick response time which ultimately led to the arrest of the perpetrator.

The suspect was apprehended after entering a facility at Mortimer Avenue and Memorial Park Avenue with what appeared to be a firearm and issuing a general threat without specifying any particular candidate.

He was charged with multiple offenses, including weapons dangerous, carrying a concealed weapon, uttering threats and failing to comply with recognizance. He was scheduled to appear in court on Friday morning.

Source: Toronto.citynews.ca