St. Thomas police are investigating what they are calling a "targeted" shooting.
Around 6 a.m., police say they responded to a shooting complaint at a residence on Palm Street, in the city's southwest end. Upon arrival, officers and first responders reportedly discovered a man with a gunshot wound to the torso. The man was transported to hospital and immediately taken into surgery, according to police. He is now listed under critical condition in the intensive care unit.
Police confirmed that the incident is believed to have been targeted and there is no threat to the public.
"Although we are unable to comment on any evidence of the investigation at this time, we can share some information regarding the initial police response," Detective Sergeant Matt Lobsinger shared in a statement. "To be clear, due to the nature of the incident, officers with specialized training and equipment from the [Ontatio Provincial Police] were involved to support [St. Thomas Police Service] officers."
The area was shut down for several hours on Saturday morning for the investigation. The road reopened around 12 p.m., according to a tweet from St. Thomas Police:
https://twitter.com/STPSmedia/status/1611761449256222720
"This is a rare occurrence for our community," Acting Police Chief Marc Roskamp said in a statement. "St. Thomas Police Service members from various units have been activated since the time of this occurrence. We will not waver in our resolve to find those responsible for this violent crime."
Roskamp went on to state that he will advocate and do all that is necessary to expose "the inadequacies of legislation that compromises public safety" and that he hopes the public will support the police effort to investigate the shooting.
"We owe that to the victim and his family," said Roskamp. "We will continue to focus intently on our public safety priorities and bring those responsible for this crime to justice."
Anyone who may have information regarding this incident are asked to contact St. Thomas Police Service at 519-631-1224 or Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
With files by Rebecca Chouinard
