Ontario Premier Doug Ford ignited a firestorm of criticism Wednesday after praising a homeowner who shot an alleged intruder during a violent home invasion, suggesting the resident “should have shot him a couple more times.”
The Premier’s remarks followed a harrowing incident early Tuesday morning in a residential Vaughan neighborhood. According to York Regional Police (YRP), at least three masked suspects—one reportedly armed—forced their way into a home near Carrville Woods Circle and Crimson Forest Drive at approximately 12:50 a.m.
A middle-aged man and an elderly woman were inside at the time. Police confirmed that the homeowner retrieved a legally owned and properly stored firearm, discharging it at the intruders.
“Sick and Tired”: Ford Blasts Judicial Leniency
Speaking at an unrelated news conference, Ford did not mince words when asked about the shooting.
“Congratulations for shooting this guy,” Ford said. “Should have shot him a couple more times as far as I’m concerned. These guys, they need to be shot… they’re coming through the front door to hurt your family.”
The Premier leveraged the incident to launch a broader attack on the federal justice system and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Ford characterized the judiciary as “weak-kneed,” accusing judges of prioritizing the rights of “bad guys” over the safety of law-abiding citizens.
“I’m just sick and tired of it,” Ford added, pointing to the fact that the suspect was out on probation at the time of the attack.
Suspect Identified with History of Violence
The individual shot in the encounter has been identified by police as Trestin Cassanova-Alman, 24, of no fixed address. Cassanova-Alman was dropped off at a Toronto-area hospital with a gunshot wound shortly after the incident and remains in stable condition under police custody.
Investigators revealed that Cassanova-Alman was already wanted by multiple agencies for “numerous violent offences” and was a target of Project Wrangler, a 2025 joint-forces operation aimed at dismantling a violent criminal group in Ontario and Quebec.
He now faces new charges, including:
- Robbery with a firearm
- Disguise with intent
- Breach of probation
YRP confirmed that no charges will be laid against the homeowner, citing the use of a legally owned weapon in an act of self-defense.
Political Backlash and “Irresponsible” Rhetoric
The Premier’s “shoot more” rhetoric drew immediate condemnation from opposition leaders, who accused him of vigilantism.
“This is very irresponsible nonsense,” said NDP Leader Marit Stiles. “If people in Ontario feel less safe today, then that’s on him as the premier.”
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner echoed these concerns, stating it is “irresponsible for the Premier to be making comments encouraging violence or celebrating the loss of life.”
The incident highlights a growing tension in Ontario over public safety and bail reform. Just days prior, Ford urged the federal government to legalize pepper spray for self-defense, part of a wider push to empower citizens amid rising concerns over retail theft and home invasions.
While Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca expressed relief that the homeowner was not charged, legal experts warn that the Premier’s comments skirt a dangerous line in a country where self-defense laws require “proportional” force.
