North York Gunfire Kills Teen, Wounds Five Others

North York Gunfire Kills Teen, Wounds Five Others
Saturday March 15, 2008
CityNews.ca Staff

Toronto suffered its 11th homicide of 2008 Friday night, but as hard as it is to imagine, the tragedy could have been much greater.

An 18-year-old was gunned down, but five others were also taken to hospital following the gunfire on Amaranth Court near Lawrence and Allen Rd. just before 10pm. All are expected to pull through after suffering wounds to the arms and legs.

Exactly what led to the brazen shooting - which occurred near a playground and in a courtyard directly behind several homes - isn't clear, but police allege a group of men were assembled on the street when they were confronted by at least one gunman.

Abdikarim Ahmed Abdikarim, 18, was hit in the head and later died in hospital.

Police spent Saturday canvassing the area for clues, though detectives insist the biggest lead comes from a security camera in the area.

"There is video surveillance which we are reviewing at this time," confirmed Toronto Homicide Det. Sgt. Brian Borg. "Which we hope will be able to provide us with a better description of the persons who are responsible."

Those that live nearby were understandably shaken Saturday.

"It's kind of shocking just to know that I'm living right here," said Simone Gordon, who lives just steps from where the bullets flew.

"It's scary," added Fortune Jones. "I'm pretty comfortable coming out in my area but now ... I'm thinking."

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a silver or grey four-door vehicle driving out of the area after the shootings. Police are looking for at least two suspects.

If you can help with the investigation call the Toronto Police Homicide Squad at 416-808-7400 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.