Toronto Raptors Title Rally Marred by Gun Violence

Four people have been injured in a daytime shooting in Toronto during a crowded victory rally for the Toronto Raptors basketball team, BBC reports.

Thousands of fans were packed into the city centre in Nathan Phillips Square when shots rang out, sending many scurrying for cover.

The event was only briefly interrupted as officials calmed the crowd.

Three people were arrested. Authorities have asked the public to send in footage to help their investigation.

Police tweeted that none of the victims had life-threatening injuries, though two were seriously wounded.

They also said they recovered two firearms from the scene.

Up to two million fans were estimated to have gathered in downtown Toronto on Monday for a parade in tribute to the basketball team.

The Raptors, who are the only National Basketball Association franchise in Canada, won the championship finals against the Golden State Warriors last Thursday – the first Canadian team to win the title.

Around mid-afternoon, thousands of revellers gathered to watch the event’s closing ceremony with players and dignitaries, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.