Suspect Arrested After Targeted Shooting at Jewish-Owned North York Restaurant
Toronto police have apprehended a suspect following a targeted shooting at the Old Avenue Restaurant, a Jewish-owned establishment in North York.
The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on the third day of Pesach near the intersection of Avenue Road and Brooke Avenue. While surveillance footage captured over a dozen rounds shattering the restaurant’s front windows, the building was empty at the time, and no injuries were reported.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Mohamed Mahdi of Brampton, was arrested by undercover officers who were already stationed in the area as part of a heightened security presence. Mahdi now faces four firearm-related charges, including discharging a prohibited firearm and possession of a loaded restricted weapon.
Police Chief Myron Demkiw credited the service’s integrated counterterrorism unit for the swift identification and apprehension of the suspect.
This marks the second time this owner’s businesses have been targeted, sparking deep concern among community leaders regarding public safety. While the restaurant has since repaired the physical damage, the Toronto Police Hate Crimes Unit continues to investigate the motive. Investigators are working to determine if there is a connection between this attack and other recent incidents involving Jewish institutions and diplomatic buildings across the Greater Toronto Area.
