Brampton, ON — Violence erupted on a quiet Tuesday evening in downtown Brampton when someone gunned down a man near George and Queen Streets just before 6 p.m.. Less than 12 hours later, a fire broke out in the same area, which police now describe as suspicious.

The back-to-back incidents are sending shockwaves through the community, especially amid growing speculation that the victim may be a criminal defence lawyer shot inside his office.

Peel Regional Police have confirmed the man suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering in stable condition at a local trauma centre. Authorities responded to the shooting at 5:44 p.m. on Tuesday. While they are withholding many details, they acknowledge that the investigation remains in its early stages.

Then, early Wednesday at 5:10 a.m., a fire was reported at 9 George Street—the exact general location. Firefighters arrived and found that the building’s sprinkler system had already activated, containing the blaze. Fortunately, no one was injured, but officials say they are still assessing the extent of the damage.

So far, police have not confirmed the victim’s identity or whether the shooting and arson are connected. However, they have acknowledged media reports that the man may be a lawyer and that the fire may have targeted his office.

Peel Regional Police spokesperson Const. Amanda Steenson said Thursday that investigators have not yet identified any suspects and are treating both incidents as part of an ongoing investigation.

The City of Brampton also released a statement, noting that the sprinkler system was effective in suppressing the fire before emergency crews arrived on the scene.

As the investigation unfolds, tension in downtown Brampton remains high. Unanswered questions continue to pile up, prompting residents to ask: Was this a targeted act? And if so, why?

Stay with us for developing updates on this evolving story.

Source: brampton guardian