Toronto devastated after youth worker Thane Murray dies in Regent Park shooting

A well-known Toronto youth worker has died after he was shot near Regent Park over the weekend. 

Thane Murray, 27, worked at several recreational facilities in Toronto, and was also an employee at the Regent Park Community Centre. 

Murray was known for his "hard work and deep passion for youth empowerment," City Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam tweeted on Monday. 

Thane Murray cared deeply about his family, friend, community and work. Do not let his death be in vain. Do not allow this violence to be normalized. Mourn his passing today, but tomorrow fight like hell to protect the living. #RIPThaneMurray #RegentParkStrong

— Kristyn Wong-Tam 黃慧文 (@kristynwongtam) September 20, 2021

Tam added that he will be deeply missed and mourned by many people in the community, including his friends, family and the kids he worked with. 

I’m also angry about the reprehensible violence once again falling in Regent Park. When multiple gunshots are heard over the playground causing parents to throw themselves over their children to desperately protect them from random gun fire - know that none of this is acceptable.

— Kristyn Wong-Tam 黃慧文 (@kristynwongtam) September 20, 2021

Toronto police identified Murray as one of the deceased victims in a shooting on Saturday in the area of Oak and Sumach Streets. 

According to police, they responded to a call just before 9 p.m., when multiple gunshots were heard in the area. 

FOOTAGE of Regent Park Shooting near Oak St + Sumach St pic.twitter.com/eo37p3XyQQ

— Hood6ix (@thehood6ix) September 19, 2021

When officers arrived they found two other men plus Murray suffering from gunshot wounds. 

Now, police are looking for four suspects who they say were involved in the shooting. 

The city put out a statement about Murray's death, calling him a well-regarded member of the Toronto Public Service. 

There’s an outpouring of grief in Regent Park for Thane Murray who was fatally shot around 9 Saturday night. The 27-year-old worked at the Regent Park Community Ctr, volunteered in this area to keep kids out of trouble. @TPSHomicide are actively looking for 4 suspects. pic.twitter.com/nbkC9ENRuf

— Catherine McDonald (@cmcdonaldglobal) September 20, 2021

Mayor John Tory sent his condolences to Murray's family, saying that his death has shocked many in the city's public service division. 

"This is a tragedy for the Regent Park community and our entire city," Tory said. "I know Toronto Police are working to solve this murder and bring those responsible to justice."