Project Targets Tow Truck Shootings

Toronto Police has launched Project Dodger to address the surge in criminal activity and violence linked to the tow truck industry.

In a 24-hour period last week, three two tow truck operators were shot.

“This project involves investigators and analysts and we are being both proactive and reactive,” said Inspector Paul Krawczyk. “The whole idea behind the project is to provide immediate support to the community and to tow truck operators.”

Last year, there were 63 firearm discharge and shooting incidents linked to tow truck-related disputes, counting for almost 13% of shootings in the city. These incidents have further escalated this year, representing 70% of the city’s shooting incidents to date.

Project Dodger builds on the success of Project Beacon that operated from June to August 2024.

Project Beacon resulted in the arrest of six individuals and 184 charges laid related to a homicide and 13 tow truck-related firearm discharge incidents.

“We remain committed to addressing two truck-related crimes and a Service-wide approach, acknowledging that this violence stems from a small segment of the industry,” said Superintendent Paul MacIntyre of Organized Crime Enforcement. “The success of Project Beacon highlighted the impact of collaboration and enforcement. Through Project Dodger, we will continue to work diligently to protect our communities and ensure safety across the city.”