Toronto police identify man killed in weekend shooting

Toronto police have identified a man who was shot dead in the city's northwest on Sunday afternoon.

Mohamud Abdi Duale, 32, of Toronto, died after he was shot nearLawrence Avenue West and Ralph Street, near Weston Road, according to police.

Officers had been called to the scene for the sound of gunshots at about 4:50 p.m. A number of gunshots were heard, police said in a news release on Monday.

When officers arrived, they found Duale with gunshot wounds and they tried to save his life, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspect or suspects fled the areaand no description has been released.

Duale is the city's 21st homicide victim of the year.

On Sunday evening,Det.-Sgt. Mike Taylor told reporters at the scene that he couldn'tsay if the shooting was targeted.

Ahmed Ali IImi, a resident of the neighbourhood and a University of Toronto professor who researches Somali Canadian communities, said young men in the area are turning to crime due to a lack of opportunity.

"This is a wide systemic issue, the issue of gun violence, and it's hitting certain communities, particularly young black malesdifferently, and they seem to be either victims or perpetrators, and we need better options and solutions for our communities,"he said.

Coun. Frances Nunziata, who represents Ward 5, York South-Weston,said on Monday that she is organizing a community safety meeting with Toronto Police ChiefMyron Demkiwto give the community a chance to learn about what the police plan to do to reduce violence and to voice concerns directly to the police.

"In times like these, it is imperative that we come together as a community to address the root causes of violence and work towards creating safer neighbourhoods for all residents,"Nunziata said in a statement.

"My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time."

Nunziata said she took part in a prayer walk led by 12 Division last week in the Weston and Lawrence area. She said the walk brought together police officers and residents of all faiths to show unity against crime and violence.

"Collaboration between law enforcement and the community is crucial in tackling these challenges," she said.

Anyone who witnessed the shooting, or who may have been driving in the area at the time and has dashboard camera footage, is urged to come forward to police.