Toronto police say charges have been laid after large groups gathered in different parts of the city early Sunday “to engage in stunt driving, discharging fireworks and other prohibited activities.”
Police said the incident began around 2:25 a.m.
Videos posted online appear to show one of the gatherings in the area of Placer Court and McNicoll Avenue, just west of Victoria Park Avenue, in North York.
One of the videos appears to show a person creating a circle of fire in an intersection with some sort of flammable liquid, as a group watches and a car drifts inside.
A police car is later seen, reversing from the area as a group approaches.
Police said officers who responded “were met with hostility, with members jumping on a scout car, causing extensive damage.”
The group eventually dispersed, police said, but reportedly went to other areas of the city “and engaged in similar activities.”
Officers said the other areas included Tapscott Road, the Toronto Zoo and Dean Park Road.
In an update on Monday, police said at least 19 people were charged with provincial offences under the Reopening Ontario Act for gathering in violation of COVID-19 restrictions.
Police also said criminal charges would be laid against those responsible for damaging two police cruisers.
— With files from Miranda Anthistle
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