Toronto police are currently investigating a suspected arson incident that occurred at the residence of Scarborough Centre-Don Valley East MP Salma Zahid. The incident, which took place early Thursday morning, involved two vehicles being set ablaze outside her home. Zahid confirmed that both vehicles were destroyed, but fortunately, there was no damage to the residence, and her family is safe.
During a media briefing outside her home, Zahid described the incident as “very traumatizing” for her family. She expressed concerns for her safety, her staff’s safety, and her family’s safety, leading her to close her constituency office for the day.
The arson incident resulted in three cars being damaged in the area of Bellamy Road N. and Lawrence Avenue E. Toronto police are actively investigating the case and are seeking video surveillance footage and witnesses to assist in their inquiries.
A neighbour of Zahid, Victoria Konstantellos, recounted the moment she heard what sounded like an explosion and saw flames on the front lawn of Zahid’s home. She and her family quickly sprang into action to ensure the safety of their neighbors and prevent further damage.
Security camera footage shared by Nandkumar Chava, a tenant residing in a house adjacent to Zahid’s, captured the suspect approaching the vehicles with a jerry can, pouring an accelerant on them, and igniting the cars before fleeing the scene in a black Hyundai sedan. Toronto police described the suspect as having a slim build and provided details of his attire during the incident.
Zahid, a Liberal Member of Parliament, has been serving Scarborough Centre since 2015 and holds important roles within parliamentary committees. Following the incident, she expressed her intention to discuss security options with the House of Commons’ sergeant-at-arms. Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the act as “unacceptable” and emphasized the need to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Various political figures and organizations, including the National Council of Canadian Muslims, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, and Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles, have expressed their support for Zahid and condemned the violence and intimidation she faced at her home. They called for the swift apprehension of those responsible for the cowardly attack.
The community and political leaders stand in solidarity with Zahid and advocate for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and justice in this distressing incident.
