Police are actively searching for two suspects linked to a tragic shooting incident that claimed the life of a 23-year-old man in Etobicoke, a neighborhood in Toronto.

Authorities were alerted to the scene near Martin Grove and Albion roads around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, where they discovered the victim, identified as Awais Ismail Awais, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Awais marks the seventh homicide victim in Toronto this year, highlighting an alarming trend of violence in the city.

Detective Sergeant Jason Davis addressed the media, stating that Awais was with a small gathering of friends at the time of the shooting. Importantly, Davis noted there is currently no evidence to suggest that Awais was specifically targeted. "This is a tragedy, and we are doing our very best to figure this out. It’s still very, very early on in this investigation,” he remarked, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

The shooting occurred in a neighborhood where families frequent a nearby playground, raising concerns about safety in community spaces. While the motive remains unclear, multiple shots were fired during the incident, striking fear in the hearts of nearby residents.

According to police, one of the male suspects was reportedly wearing black shoes, while the other was dressed in a gray hoodie, white T-shirt, black pants, white socks, and dark shoes. No further identifying details have been released, but Davis mentioned that investigators are conducting an extensive video canvass in the vicinity to gather more information.

The Toronto police homicide unit is leading the investigation and is urging anyone with information or relevant video footage to come forward. Residents who may have witnessed the shooting are encouraged to contact the police at 416-808-7400 or reach out to Crime Stoppers anonymously.

As the investigation unfolds, the community is left grappling with both grief and concern over the senseless act of violence, hoping for swift justice for Awais and his grieving family. Stay tuned for updates as police work diligently to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking incident.