In the early hours of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, a violent swarming attack took place at a a Pizza Pizza location at 199 Wentworth Street West in Oshawa, Ontario. Around 12:30 a.m., a group of young individuals caused a disturbance inside the store, leading to a confrontation when one member attempted to steal cans of pop. The situation escalated as several members jumped behind the counter, swarmed, and assaulted a female employee, who is the Muslim owner of the business. The assault involved the forcible removal of her hijab, prompting the Durham Regional Police Service to investigate the incident as potentially hate-motivated. The victim was injured and is currently recovering at home while police continue to review surveillance footage and appeal to the public for information. Local officials have condemned the attack, highlighting concerns about Islamophobia and calling for community safety and inclusion.
The incident at the Pizza Pizza on Wentworth Street West unfolded shortly after midnight when a group of young individuals entered the establishment and began causing a disturbance. According to eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage reviewed by the Durham Regional Police Service, the situation intensified when one person attempted to steal canned beverages. In response, store staff intervened, which led to several members of the group climbing behind the counter.
During the ensuing confrontation, a female employee, who is also the Muslim owner of the business, was physically assaulted. Witnesses and police reports indicate that the attackers forcibly removed her hijab, an act that significantly raised concerns about the motivation behind the attack. The Durham Regional Police have since launched a hate crime investigation to determine whether the assault was driven by religious intolerance.
The victim sustained injuries deemed serious enough to warrant medical attention, and she is currently recovering at home. The police continue to analyze CCTV footage captured within the store and are actively seeking additional information from the public to identify all individuals involved. Authorities emphasize the importance of community cooperation in resolving the case.
Community and Official Response
Local officials have swiftly condemned the attack, labeling it a troubling example of potential Islamophobia. Statements from community leaders and city representatives stress the imperative of fostering an inclusive and safe environment for all citizens. The incident has sparked discussions on the need for increased awareness and educational programs addressing hate crimes and religious discrimination.
Durham Regional Police have reiterated their commitment to thoroughly investigating the case and ensuring justice for the victim. They have also announced plans to collaborate with local organizations to address issues of hate and promote intercultural understanding within the community.
Ongoing Investigation
- Surveillance footage is being meticulously reviewed for additional evidence.
- Police are appealing to anyone with information or who may have witnessed the attack to come forward.
- An emphasis is placed on identifying all participants in the swarming attack.
- Investigators are exploring all angles to confirm the motivation behind the assault, including the possibility of it being a hate crime.
The investigation remains active, and further updates are expected as new information becomes available. The community continues to watch closely as authorities work to address the incident’s broader implications for safety and inclusion in Oshawa.
The attack at the Pizza Pizza location in Oshawa has underscored serious concerns regarding hate-motivated violence and community safety. As the Durham Regional Police continue their investigation into the incident, the cooperation of the public remains crucial in bringing those responsible to justice. Local officials and community leaders have called for heightened awareness and proactive measures to combat religious discrimination and to promote an environment of respect and inclusion. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by minority communities and the importance of collective efforts to foster a safe and welcoming society for all residents.