Chaos erupted on a moving subway train in Toronto on Thursday afternoon as passengers fled from a violent altercation that involved the stabbing of one man.
A video capturing the altercation between two male passengers has been posted online. In the footage, a man appeared to abruptly throw a punch at the other party, and the two subsequently traded punches and kicks. The other party suddenly brandished a knife, and seeing this, the first man turned from the fight and rushed through the train compartments, calling out for help. The other man chased closely behind him.
Other passengers quickly retreated in the opposite direction, seeking safety, and a woman was heard saying in the video: “He’s stabbing him up,” and “He’s killing him.” Traces of blood were seen spread out across the train floor.
The video concludes with the assailant disembarking from the train at the station’s platform after it comes to a halt.
The incident occurred at 12:23 p.m. near Eglinton station, according to the Toronto Police Service. Upon arriving at the scene, the police said they had located a male with wounds, and he was transferred to the hospital. The victim, in his 30s, was initially believed to be in life-threatening condition, and was later reported to be in stable condition, according to CBC News.
The suspect, who is still at large, is described as a black male, bald, and between five foot 11 and six feet. He was wearing a green hoodie, black pants, and black-and-gold sunglasses.
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) temporarily closed subway Line 1, between Lawrence Station and Davisville Station. Regular train services along Line 1 largely resumed at roughly 6:30 p.m., though trains are currently not stopping at Eglinton Station, where police investigation remains ongoing, TTC announced on social media.
Stuart Green, spokesperson for the TTC, expressed concern over the incident, saying that acts of violence on TTC property are unacceptable, and emphasized the importance of customer and employee safety, according to CBC News.
As the investigation continues, authorities urged anyone with relevant information to call the police.