Shooting Incidents in Vaughan: Historical Overview and Hospital Responses
Vaughan, January 10, 2026 – Vaughan, a suburb north of Toronto, experienced several shooting incidents in recent years, prompting investigations by York Regional Police and highlighting the role of local hospitals in emergency responses. These events, ranging from targeted assaults to mass shootings, underscored community safety concerns and the need for robust healthcare support.
Key Incidents and Police Investigations
In December 2022, a mass shooting occurred at the Bellaria Residences condominium in Vaughan, resulting in six deaths, including the 73-year-old suspect, Francesco Villi, who was killed by police. The incident stemmed from a long-standing dispute between Villi and the condominium board over issues like noise and vibrations from an electrical room. York Regional Police investigated, and the Special Investigations Unit cleared officers of wrongdoing. A seventh person was injured and treated at a local hospital.
Another notable case took place in June 2024 at the Vaughan Mills shopping centre parking lot, where a 21-year-old woman, Alisseaha Golar-Kotlar, was fatally shot in what police described as a targeted incident. Two suspects were charged, one with first-degree murder and the other as an accessory. The victim was taken to hospital but did not survive.
In June 2025, a shooting at Lebovic Campus Drive near Bathurst Street and Rutherford Road left a 33-year-old man with non-life-threatening injuries. Police believed it was targeted, and the suspect fled in a vehicle. Roads were closed for the investigation.
Additional incidents included gunfire at a residence on Allison Ann Way in early 2025, with no injuries reported, and a shooting at a home in Richmond Hill in January 2026, damaging a vehicle. York Regional Police handled these cases, emphasizing community safety.
Role of Vaughan Hospitals in Responses
Local hospitals, such as Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital (part of Mackenzie Health), played a critical role in treating victims. For instance, in the 2022 Bellaria shooting, emergency services transported the injured to hospital. Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital’s emergency department, open 24/7, provides urgent care for gunshot wounds and collaborates with police on victim support. The hospital offers services like domestic abuse and sexual assault support, ensuring comprehensive care.
In other cases, such as the Vaughan Mills incident, victims were rushed to nearby medical centres. Hospitals in Vaughan adhere to protocols for storing evidence like sexual offence evidence collection kits, as required by Ontario law, and provide victim assistance through programs like the Victim Quick Response Program+.
Broader investigations into hospital negligence, such as those at Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, UK, or Nottingham University Hospitals, highlight global concerns, but Vaughan’s focus remains on local incidents and police cooperation.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Incident Date | Location and Details |
|---|---|
| December 19, 2022 | Bellaria Residences condo; 6 dead, including suspect; 1 injured; targeted shooting linked to dispute. |
| June 19, 2024 | Vaughan Mills parking lot; 1 dead (21-year-old woman); 2 charged; targeted incident. |
| June 11, 2025 | Lebovic Campus Drive; 1 injured (non-life-threatening); suspect fled; targeted. |
| Early 2025 | Allison Ann Way residence; gunfire, no injuries; third incident at same address. |
| January 7, 2026 | Richmond Hill home; vehicle damaged; no injuries; firearms investigation. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What support is available for victims of shootings in Vaughan?
Victims can access the Victim Quick Response Program+ for expenses like counselling, funeral costs, and home security. Local organizations, such as Chatham-Kent Victim Services (though regional, similar services exist in York Region), provide emotional support and referrals. Hospitals like Cortellucci Vaughan offer on-site assistance for domestic abuse and sexual assault cases.
How do Vaughan hospitals handle evidence in shooting cases?
Hospitals follow Public Health Law requirements to store unreported sexual offence evidence collection kits for up to 20 years. They use systems like the Kit Inventory and Tracking System for chain of custody, ensuring evidence integrity for police investigations.
What measures are in place to prevent future incidents?
York Regional Police conduct proactive patrols and appeal for public tips. Hospitals emphasize safety and collaborate with law enforcement. Community programs focus on crime prevention and support for affected families.