Spike in York Region shootings linked to organized crime

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York Region has seen a 92% increase in shootings and a 106% spike in carjackings this year, according to York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween.

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“While York Region remains really safe, we are experiencing an increase in crime involving guns,” MacSween said at a press conference on Tuesday. “I want to take this opportunity to provide you with some data, so you understand what is happening in the region and the root cause is gun violence. In 2024, the region has seen a 92% increase increase in shootings with a total of 46 since January.

“We have also seen a 106% increase in carjackings with a total of 106 since January of this year. Equally troubling, since 2019 — over a five-year period — we have seen a 400% increase in carjackings, which are violent and traumatizing for victims. Illegal guns have become far too easy to access with limited consequences for criminals and almost all of the guns are being used in these crimes.”

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MacSween said guns are being smuggled into Canada from the U.S.

“The surge in violence can be attributed to organized crime rings who are using illegal guns to commit crimes. Organized crime is also behind the increase in auto thefts,” MacSween said, adding violent crime is a major concern and fighting it will be a priority.

In September, York police will launch two major initiatives — a dedicated carjacking task force and an auto theft prevention campaign — to help the community protect themselves and their vehicles.

There have also been 15 homicides in York Region this year.

“All of the victims in these cases were targeted,” MacSween said. “These were not random crimes.

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“However, we do understand that these crimes can shake our community to its core and are extremely tragic for victims, family members and loved ones.”

He added there are concerns about a rise in intimate partner violence, while hate crimes rose by 4% in 2024. That’s a concern for police, MacSween said, adding that diversity within the region is what makes it a desirable place to live.

“I am asking people across the region to work with police to ensure our community remains one of the safest in the country,” said MacSween.

“These are simple, everyday actions to be an ambassador for your community. Pay attention to your surroundings, chat with your neighbours and if you see something out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to report it to York Regional Police immediately.”

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