Cops working “feverishly” on Marner carjacking amid major spike

Spree this year hits 60 compared to 59 for all of last year. “Thankfully the victims were unharmed”: Insp. Rich Harris

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Without identifying Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner by name, Toronto Police say officers are “feverishly” working to solve Monday night’s carjacking of the hockey player.

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“The victims were a man and a woman in their 20s who were robbed at gunpoint for their vehicle. That was a Land Rover that was stolen,” said Insp. Rich Harris said outside police headquarters.

“Thankfully, the victims were unharmed. And we’re actively working to establish any links with dedicated investigators — trust me when I tell you — dedicated investigators are working on this feverishly and continue to review any and all evidence.”

The intense search for suspects began after police were called around 7:45 p.m. to the parking lot of a cinema, near Islington Ave. and the Gardiner Expressway.

Harris said he believes it was a crime of opportunity, adding that thieves seek high-end vehicles which they can later sell.

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“The victims did comply with the demands that were made of them and the suspects made off with their vehicle,” Harris said.

Police revealed there has been a big surge in carjackings so far in 2022.

“In 2022, our unit has had 60 carjacking occurrences that we have taken carriage of,” Harris said. “Last year, we had 59 for the entire year.”

Investigators with the holdup squad have made 20 arrests in those incidents.

Some of those arrested have been linked to multiple carjackings.

With the increase in cases, Harris said, there are more uniform and plainclothes officers patrolling in “hotspot areas” across the city.

Police also offered safety tips for drivers and car owners.

“If someone attempts to steal your car, please give it up. Do not resist. Do not argue or fight. Your safety is worth more than your car,” Harris said.

“Keep doors lock at all times. If you feel threatened, sound your alarm and call 911.”

Drivers are also being told to be aware of their surroundings, to park in areas that are well-lit, and to keep valuables out of sight.

Spree this year hits 60 compared to 59 for all of last year. “Thankfully the victims were unharmed”: Insp. Rich Harris

Article content

Without identifying Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner by name, Toronto Police say officers are “feverishly” working to solve Monday night’s carjacking of the hockey player.

Article content

“The victims were a man and a woman in their 20s who were robbed at gunpoint for their vehicle. That was a Land Rover that was stolen,” said Insp. Rich Harris said outside police headquarters.

“Thankfully, the victims were unharmed. And we’re actively working to establish any links with dedicated investigators — trust me when I tell you — dedicated investigators are working on this feverishly and continue to review any and all evidence.”

The intense search for suspects began after police were called around 7:45 p.m. to the parking lot of a cinema, near Islington Ave. and the Gardiner Expressway.

Harris said he believes it was a crime of opportunity, adding that thieves seek high-end vehicles which they can later sell.

Article content

“The victims did comply with the demands that were made of them and the suspects made off with their vehicle,” Harris said.

Police revealed there has been a big surge in carjackings so far in 2022.

“In 2022, our unit has had 60 carjacking occurrences that we have taken carriage of,” Harris said. “Last year, we had 59 for the entire year.”

Investigators with the holdup squad have made 20 arrests in those incidents.

Some of those arrested have been linked to multiple carjackings.

With the increase in cases, Harris said, there are more uniform and plainclothes officers patrolling in “hotspot areas” across the city.

Police also offered safety tips for drivers and car owners.

“If someone attempts to steal your car, please give it up. Do not resist. Do not argue or fight. Your safety is worth more than your car,” Harris said.

“Keep doors lock at all times. If you feel threatened, sound your alarm and call 911.”

Drivers are also being told to be aware of their surroundings, to park in areas that are well-lit, and to keep valuables out of sight.