TORONTO – The Toronto Raptors will have extra security in place for Wednesday night’s pre-season game following the Parliament Hill shootings in Ottawa.
The team encouraged fans to arrive early for the Raptors’ game against Maccabi Haifa so they have enough time to clear security at Air Canada Centre.
A Canadian Forces soldier at the National War Memorial was killed Wednesday morning by a masked gunman, who then moved up the street to launch an attack on nearby Parliament Hill, in which at least two people were injured.
Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Raptors, says it will be working with Toronto police to implement the extra security. The organization didn’t give specifics on the additional measures.
“Our top priority is ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our fans and both teams for tonight’s pre-season game,” Wayne Zronik, MLSE’s vice-president of facilities and live entertainment said in a statement. “We have worked very closely with the Toronto police to ensure heightened security measures for tonight’s game and we very much appreciate the patience and co-operation of all those in attendance.”
Gates will open at 6 p.m. ET for a 7:30 p.m. tip-off to give fans extra time to enter the arena.
Comments