In North York, Ontario, Momtaz Eqban Nesar’s life has shifted dramatically following a frightening incident earlier this year. While sitting in his parked vehicle, a projectile shattered his driver’s side window, leaving him shaken but physically unharmed. The event, which involved a large hole in the glass, has permanently altered his sense of security. He conveyed to Global News how the aftermath has transformed outings with his family, expressing that he no longer feels relaxed when in his car. This incident is part of a troubling pattern in the area, as there have been multiple instances of stopped vehicles being targeted by someone driving along Yonge Street, notably between Sheppard and Greenfield Avenues.
Since February, there have been at least twelve reported cases where vehicles stationary at this location have been struck by projectiles. According to acting Toronto police Det. Sgt. Andrew Lipkus, the assailant has employed what appears to be a BB gun or pellet gun, rather than conventional firearms. The projectiles are described as silver, resembling ball bearings about a centimeter in diameter. Nearly half of the impacted vehicles had occupants at the time of the incidents, further intensifying the fear in the community. The most recent event occurred on September 6, highlighting the ongoing danger faced by residents and motorists in the vicinity.
Investigators are uncertain whether a single individual or multiple offenders are responsible for this disturbing trend. The modus operandi (MO) of the assailant remains unclear, but detectives emphasize that the targeting appears specific to a defined area, raising concerns about the nature of the motivation behind these attacks. The right lane of Yonge Street, specifically, is designated as a no-stopping zone, which leads some to speculate that the attacks may be directed against motorists who inadvertently obstruct traffic.
Local residents are understandably alarmed by the prospect of violence in what should be a safe environment. Tim Borden, who was parked while waiting for a friend, expressed disbelief that he could be a potential target for such reckless behavior. Similarly, nearby resident Jennifer Hoffman voiced her apprehension, suggesting that the assailant might harbor discontent towards drivers who temporarily block the lane. Both Borden and Hoffman articulate a shared hope that law enforcement will swiftly apprehend the individual responsible for these distressing events.
The escalating nature of the situation has prompted police to solicit assistance from the public. Authorities are particularly interested in acquiring dashcam footage or any images that might reveal the perpetrator’s identity. Det. Sgt. Lipkus warned that given the context of these incidents, it is only a matter of time before serious injury occurs if the attacks continue unchecked. The combination of community unease and rising tensions further underscores the urgency with which police are approaching this investigation.
As this situation develops, it reflects broader concerns regarding public safety and the increasing prevalence of violence in urban areas. Nesar’s narrative serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly the sense of security can be shattered, affecting not just individuals but entire communities. In a time where many people are already dealing with heightened anxiety in various aspects of life, incidents like this contribute to a growing atmosphere of fear on the streets. The hope remains that through community vigilance and proactive policing, the perpetrator can be found and brought to justice, restoring a sense of safety to North York’s residents.
