Man who allegedly shot at vehicles on Highway 401 arrested after violent carjacking: police

Toronto police say they have arrested a man who allegedly shot at multiple vehicles on Highway 401 this week after a violent carjacking on Wednesday night.

Duty Insp. Steve Campoli, spokesperson for the Toronto Police Service, told reporters that the 29-year-old was arrested at Lake Shore Boulevard and Carlaw Avenue at about 7:40 p.m. 

Police believe the man was involved in a series of attempted carjackings and shootings from Dundas Street E. and Carroll Street to Lake Shore Boulevard and Carlaw Avenue, before being arrested. The man had a firearm at the time of his arrest, police said.

"Much like yesterday, the suspect was seen pointing his firearm at multiple vehicles and shooting towards them," Campoli said.

Campoli said the suspect abandoned the vehicle he was in and fled on foot. Officers arrested him and recovered a firearm, he said.

During one of the carjackings, a man was shot and suffered serious, possibly life-threatening, injuries. 

The arrest comes a day after police said a man opened fire at several passing vehicles on Highway 401 in Mississauga. More than 10 vehicles were shot at in the eastbound lanes near Dixie Road, they said.

Ontario Provincial Police said the man is also believed to have stolen a vehicle in that incident. No one was seriously injured, they said.

Campoli described the accused as a "dangerous individual."

"We are still working to establish a complete timeline. However, what is critical to know is this: The suspect is in custody and there is no further threat to public safety," Campoli said.

Ontario Provincial Police Duty Insp. Sean Chatland thanked the public for providing numerous tips and dashboard camera footage that helped the investigation.

"This investigation has been complex and constantly evolving, ultimately resulting in a victim being hospitalized and a suspect being arrested. Our thoughts are with the victim and their family at this time," Chatland said.