Great Canadian Entertainment is fully cooperating with law enforcement after a shooting at Pickering Casino, outside of Toronto, earlier today led to the death of a security guard at the facility.
The shooting took place at 5:05 a.m., according to a statement issued by the Durham Regional Police. Police responded to a call of multiple shots at the casino. They are reviewing security footage from the casino “and are actively looking for multiple suspects who fled the area.”
Police arrived on the scene and were directed inside the casino where they located the victim suffering from gunshot wounds, the statement said. The casino was evacuated and life-saving measures were performed on the victim. The victim was rushed to a Toronto-area trauma center where he succumbed to his wounds.
The victim has been identified as Michael Ferdinand, aged 34.
Great Canadian Entertainment said in a statement, “We are devastated by the loss of Michael Ferdinand and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Our focus today is to offer support to Michael’s loved ones, as well as our guests and team members. We are grateful for the swift response of the first responders and will continue to fully collaborate with law enforcement as they seek those responsible for this senseless act.”
A note on the Pickering Casino Resort X social-media platform says the facility is temporarily closed, with no mention of the shooting.
Police are asking anyone who was inside the casino at the time of the incident to come forward with any information, including cellphone video and dashcam footage. They are asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5402.
Great Canadian Entertainment is a gaming and hospitality company with 25 facilities in Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
