Police are currently investigating a suspected arson incident at the residence of a Scarborough Member of Parliament after multiple vehicles were set on fire in the early hours of Thursday, as confirmed by her office. Scarborough Centre-Don Valley East MP Salma Zahid stated in a written release that an unidentified individual ignited her car and another vehicle parked outside her home overnight, resulting in the destruction of both vehicles. Fortunately, there was no harm to the residence, and Zahid assured the safety of herself and her family.
During a media briefing outside her home later in the day, Zahid described the event as “highly distressing” for her family. Expressing concerns for their safety, she mentioned the closure of her constituency office for the day. Toronto police reported that three cars were damaged by the fire at Bellamy Road N. and Lawrence Avenue E. around 1:20 a.m., without confirming a direct link to Zahid.
Neighbour Victoria Konstantellos recalled being awakened by what she described as a muffled explosion and then witnessing flames on Zahid’s front lawn. Reacting swiftly, she and her mother attempted to alert neighbors and prevent the spread of the fire. Nandkumar Chava, a tenant living in a house adjacent to Zahid’s, shared security footage with CBC News showing a person approaching the vehicles with a jerry can, pouring what seemed to be gasoline, and setting the cars ablaze before fleeing the scene.
Toronto police released a statement describing the suspect as having a slim build and wearing specific clothing items. Zahid, a Liberal Member of Parliament since 2015, chairs the standing committee on science and research and is the vice-chair of the Canada-China legislative association. She intends to discuss security measures with the House of Commons’ sergeant-at-arms. Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the incident as “unacceptable” and emphasized the need for justice.
Various political figures and organizations, including the National Council of Canadian Muslims, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, and Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles, expressed shock and solidarity with Zahid, denouncing the act of violence and calling for the perpetrators to be apprehended. The incident has sparked concerns within the community due to Zahid’s longstanding dedication to human rights advocacy.