Urban crime concerns grow as Toronto residents consider arming themselves

A government-commissioned poll has revealed deepening fears about urban crime in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), with some residents considering arming themselves for protection.

Blacklock's Reporter says the findings, gathered through Privy Council focus groups, highlight growing unease over gun-related violence.

“Some participants reported avoiding certain areas of the GTA they perceived as dangerous,” the report stated.

“Many believed the increasing presence of firearms signaled a deeper societal issue, with a rising number of Canadians feeling unsafe in their communities.”

Concerns were also raised that if gun crime rates continue to climb, more people may feel compelled to legally acquire firearms, further increasing their presence in urban neighborhoods.

Toronto Police Service data shows gun violence has resulted in 119 injuries and 32 deaths since 2021. Focus group participants overwhelmingly blamed cross-border gun smuggling rather than legally owned firearms from hunters and sport shooters.

“The vast majority of legal firearm owners were seen as highly responsible, adhering strictly to regulations and using their guns only for hunting or target shooting,” the report noted. “Most believed that nearly all gun-related crimes in the GTA involved illegally obtained weapons.”

The study, conducted by The Strategic Counsel under a $1.6 million federal contract, surveyed residents who expressed concerns about crime. Many participants believed gun-related incidents had increased in recent years, while others felt levels had remained stable. However, no one reported a decline in firearm activity.

The GTA, home to more than 6.2 million people, has been a key political battleground. In the 2021 election, Liberals secured 49 of the region’s 55 parliamentary seats, underscoring the political significance of crime concerns ahead of the next federal vote.