Toronto police have identified 23-year-old Ryan Petroff as the suspect in a deliberate hit-and-run incident on the Toronto Metropolitan University campus that injured four people. The event occurred on Tuesday, April 15, around 1:54 p.m. on Nelson Mandela Walk, where a green Honda sedan with stolen license plates drove onto the pedestrian pathway, striking individuals seated on a bench. Authorities are treating the collision as a targeted attack rather than a random act, with two victims sustaining serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Petroff faces multiple charges, including dangerous operation of a vehicle causing bodily harm and assault with a weapon, while police have cautioned the public against approaching him and have called for his surrender.
On April 15, 2024, at approximately 1:54 p.m., Toronto Police responded to reports of a hit-and-run incident on the Toronto Metropolitan University campus, specifically on Nelson Mandela Walk. A green Honda sedan, which was later confirmed to have stolen license plates, drove deliberately onto the pedestrian pathway, striking several individuals who were seated on a bench. The incident resulted in injuries to four people, two of whom sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Following an extensive investigation, authorities have identified Ryan Petroff, 23, as the suspect involved in this targeted attack. Police described the collision as intentional, emphasizing that this was not a random occurrence but a premeditated act aimed at the victims. This characterization has shaped the ongoing police response and public communication.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Ryan Petroff faces several serious charges related to the incident. These include:
- Dangerous operation of a vehicle causing bodily harm
- Assault with a weapon
- Failing to stop at the scene of an accident
The exact nature of the charges reflects the severity of the incident and the intent as determined by police investigation. Authorities continue to gather evidence and have urged the public to refrain from taking any action if they encounter Petroff.
Public Safety and Police Advisory
Toronto Police have issued a caution to the public, advising against approaching the suspect. Officers have called on Ryan Petroff to surrender to authorities promptly to ensure further public safety. Additionally, the police are urging anyone with information related to Petroff’s whereabouts or any details about the vehicle involved to come forward.
Impact and Community Response
The incident has caused significant concern within the Toronto Metropolitan University community and the broader Toronto area due to its targeted and violent nature. University officials and city leaders have expressed support for the victims and emphasized a commitment to maintaining campus safety. Support services and counseling have been made available to those affected by the event.
This case remains under active investigation, and police have indicated that updates will be provided as new information becomes available. The authorities continue to prioritize locating Ryan Petroff to prevent any further harm and to bring a resolution to this serious incident.
In summary, the deliberate hit-and-run incident on the Toronto Metropolitan University campus has prompted a thorough police investigation leading to the identification of Ryan Petroff as the suspect. The targeted nature of the attack and the serious injuries sustained underscore the gravity of the case. With multiple charges filed against Petroff, law enforcement continues to seek his prompt surrender to ensure public safety. The university community and city officials remain focused on support for the victims and reinforcing safety measures as the investigation progresses.
