Police in Scarborough are currently investigating a suspected arson incident at the residence of a Member of Parliament after multiple vehicles were set on fire early Thursday morning. The MP, Salma Zahid, confirmed that her car and another vehicle parked outside her home were intentionally set on fire overnight. Fortunately, there was no damage to the house, and Zahid, along with her family, are unharmed.
Zahid refrained from speculating on the motive behind the arson and stated that they are awaiting the results of the ongoing investigation. She expressed her distress over the incident, describing it as “very traumatizing” for her family. Concerned for their safety, Zahid decided to close her constituency office for the day.
The Toronto police reported that three cars were damaged due to a fire in the vicinity of Bellamy Road N. and Lawrence Avenue E. in the early hours of the morning. However, they have not confirmed any direct link to Zahid at this time.
Neighbour Victoria Konstantellos recounted the moment she heard what sounded like an explosion and saw flames outside Zahid’s home. She immediately took action, along with her mother, to alert neighbors and ensure their safety.
Security camera footage shared by a tenant living in Zahid’s attached house captured a person approaching the vehicles with a jerry can, pouring what seemed to be gasoline on them, and igniting the cars before fleeing the scene. The suspect is described as having a slim build, wearing a black mask, hooded sweater, gloves, and running shoes with light socks. Authorities believe the suspect fled in a black Hyundai sedan.
Zahid, a Liberal MP representing Scarborough Centre, has been serving in Parliament since 2015 and chairs the standing committee on science and research. Following the incident, she plans to discuss security options with the House of Commons’ sergeant-at-arms.
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the act as “unacceptable” and emphasized the need for the perpetrator to be brought to justice. Various political figures and organizations, including the National Council of Canadian Muslims and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, expressed their support for Zahid and denounced the violence and intimidation she experienced.