Project Wrangler: Thirteen Arrested as Police Break Up Alleged Violent Criminal Network Spanning Ontario and Quebec

A Look Back at the Growing Pains Behind Canada’s Rise as a Basketball Power

For decades, Canada Basketball struggled to define its identity, reconcile regional differences and build a program capable of competing against the world’s best. Today, with NBA-level talent flooding the national roster and Canadian players shaping global basketball culture, it is easy to forget the turbulent years that nearly fractured the program from within.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, systemic challenges — including allegations of racial bias, philosophical disputes over player development and the widening divide between East Coast and West Coast basketball cultures — created a volatile environment that shaped the organization’s future. Against the backdrop of immigration-driven demographic change and the growing influence of the NBA, these tensions exposed deep flaws in the national team structure and led to reforms that continue to influence the sport today.

A Country New to Its Own Basketball Identity

Basketball in Canada Before the Raptors Era

Before Canada gained an NBA foothold with the Toronto Raptors and Vancouver Grizzlies in 1995, basketball remained a niche interest with minimal media attention. The sport, though invented by Canadian James Naismith, lacked the broad national support enjoyed by hockey or even football.

University programs in Western Canada — particularly the University of Victoria under coach Ken Shields — dominated the domestic scene. Their structured, disciplined approach became the foundation of the national team program. But this philosophy did not reflect the rapidly evolving basketball culture in major urban centres.

The Rise of Urban Talent

Through the 1980s and early 1990s, Toronto and Montreal emerged as new basketball hotbeds. Immigration from the Caribbean, Africa and Latin America brought dynamic playing styles, outdoor-court creativity and a deep cultural connection to the global game.

These communities produced some of the country’s most talented players. Yet many young stars felt overlooked by a national team system rooted primarily in the West Coast university model.

This cultural disconnect would soon explode into a national controversy.

International Pressure Exposes Internal Tensions

The Early 1990s: A Critical Moment

Internationally, the basketball world was changing fast. The arrival of NBA professionals at global events — first at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics with the famous U.S. “Dream Team” — dramatically shifted public interest and raised expectations for national programs.

Canada, eager to be taken seriously, attempted to modernize but faced internal constraints:

• limited funding

• fragmented development pathways

• competing regional philosophies

• pressure from FIBA to grow the sport domestically

By the mid-1990s, Canada Basketball was facing financial strain while fielding rosters that struggled to keep pace with global competition. The gap between the talent emerging in the country’s major cities and the players selected for the national team drew increasing scrutiny.

Allegations of Racial Bias Surface

Frustration Among Urban Players

As more Black Canadian athletes emerged from Toronto, Montreal and other urban centres, some began to question whether they were being given fair opportunities. While these athletes excelled in NCAA programs and international leagues, several high-profile players claimed that they were being excluded from the national team for non-performance reasons.

Many athletes argued that the system in place inadvertently favored:

• players from the West Coast

• university athletes familiar with the national team’s established system

• a style of play emphasizing structure over improvisation

This created the perception that Canada Basketball was culturally out of touch with the country’s evolving talent landscape.

Media Spotlight Amplifies the Issue

By the mid-1990s, the concerns of overlooked players gained significant media attention. Journalists began investigating whether systemic biases — intentional or not — were shaping roster decisions.

The controversy put immense pressure on the national federation, which at the time lacked diversity in leadership and coaching roles. The public debate forced Canadians to confront the racial and structural inequities embedded in the country’s basketball ecosystem.

External Review and the Push for Change

A Federal Review Is Launched

Facing public criticism, Canada Basketball requested an external review conducted through Sport Canada. The goal was to assess whether racial bias influenced selection decisions or team management.

Though the investigation did not conclude that racism explicitly determined roster choices, it identified several structural issues:

• lack of diversity on coaching staffs and selection committees

• poor outreach to urban communities

• training camps geographically concentrated in the West

• outdated talent identification methods

• limited transparency in the selection process

The review offered a series of recommendations that would eventually reshape the national program.

Key Changes Suggested by the Report

Among its recommendations, the federal review emphasized:

• separating coaching duties from administrative leadership roles

• involving more minority coaches in certification and development pathways

• expanding open tryouts across major Canadian cities

• modernizing the style of play to reflect emerging talent

• improving communication with urban athletes and their communities

These reforms marked a turning point, acknowledging that Canada’s basketball identity was no longer regional — it was national, multicultural and dynamic.

The Cultural Divide: Style, Philosophy and Identity

The Clash Between Systems

The West Coast university-based system was known for:

• half-court execution

• structure and discipline

• traditional roles

• low-risk, methodical offense

Urban players, influenced by pickup culture and international styles, brought:

• improvisation

• athleticism and above-the-rim play

• creativity and flair

• speed and physicality

This clash raised important questions:
Which style best represented Canada? Which style produced the best teams?

Evolving Toward a National Vision

Over time, it became clear that Canada needed to integrate multiple basketball cultures rather than choose one. The country’s emerging stars — many of whom grew up on city courts — would eventually prove that embracing stylistic diversity was not a liability but a competitive advantage.

A Program Reinvented

The Long Road Toward Inclusivity

The fallout from the 1990s controversy forced Canada Basketball to confront its shortcomings. In the decades that followed, the organization invested heavily in:

• diversifying leadership

• modernizing talent pathways

• building national training centres

• expanding youth development programs

• strengthening ties with grassroots and community organizations

Today, the majority of Canada’s elite players come from diverse, urban backgrounds — a reflection of the country’s demographic reality and its basketball renaissance.

The Rise of a New Generation

The success of players like Steve Nash, Jamaal Magloire, Tristan Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and many others underscores the transformation of Canadian basketball culture. Many of these athletes grew up hearing stories about the national program’s past barriers — and their success helped ensure those issues would not define the future.

Conclusion: A Complicated History, A Stronger Future

Canada’s basketball journey has been marked by tension, transformation and hard-earned growth. The controversies of the 1980s and 1990s revealed painful truths about exclusion, regional bias and cultural misunderstanding. But they also pushed the organization toward reform, inclusion and modernization.

Today, Canada is considered one of the most promising basketball nations in the world. Its rise is not only a product of talent but of the lessons learned during a turbulent era — one that reshaped the sport’s identity, redefined its values and cleared the path for a new generation.

Inside the Raptors’ Midseason Shift: How Brandon Ingram Sparked a Turnaround — And What Doug Smith Says About the Team’s Biggest Questions

As the Toronto Raptors hit the crucial 20-game mark of the NBA season, the conversation around the team has quickly shifted from worry to optimism. Two weeks ago, the Raptors were struggling to find rhythm and identity. Now, with several impressive wins and a renewed sense of cohesion, fans are beginning to wonder whether this team has finally discovered its formula for long-term success.

Veteran columnist Doug Smith’s latest mailbag offers a deep dive into many of the questions swirling around Raptors Nation — from Brandon Ingram’s impact and rotation concerns to the much-discussed water bottle incident and the state of scouting across the league. Beyond the basketball concerns, readers also raised broader issues, including the influence of sports gambling and the surprising culture that fueled the Toronto Blue Jays’ memorable season.

This feature unpacks those themes — and highlights Smith’s candid insights — as Toronto enters one of the most important stretches of the year.

The Changing Landscape of Sports Fandom

How Sports Gambling Has Altered the Fan Experience

A recurring theme among fans is how sports gambling has reshaped the emotional connection between supporters and their local teams. One reader expressed discomfort with the increasingly prominent role of sports betting, its integration into broadcasts, and its potential impact on the integrity of the game.

Smith acknowledges the concern. While he agrees that certain alarmist narratives overstate the long-term damage, he also emphasizes that the risks surrounding gambling scandals are real — and growing. Prop bets, in particular, remain a major vulnerability. According to Smith, as long as individual-player wagers are widely accessible, scandals will continue to pop up and erode trust in the system.

Despite this, he cautions against blowing minor incidents out of proportion, arguing that excessive outrage over small matters can distract from the truly dangerous issues.

How the Blue Jays Built One of the Most Cohesive Teams in Franchise History

A Culture Unlike Anything Seen Before

Beyond basketball, readers also asked Smith about the Toronto Blue Jays’ unlikely surge this past season — a year defined by remarkable chemistry and internal leadership.

From Smith’s vantage point, this Blue Jays squad may have been one of the most connected groups he has ever observed in professional sports. Much of that unity, he says, stems from manager John Schneider’s calm, steady livelihood. Schneider allowed players to be themselves, avoided overreactions during highs and lows, and created a space where veterans and younger players could bond naturally over the course of a long season.

He also credits established leaders like Max Scherzer, Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer and Andrés Giménez, all of whom sacrificed ego to elevate the group. That humility trickled down to the entire roster. In Smith’s view, the combination of maturity, leadership and a grounded clubhouse environment created a cultural dynamic that will be difficult — perhaps impossible — to replicate.

Raptors at 20 Games: What’s Driving the Turnaround?

Is Brandon Ingram the Missing Piece?

The biggest question in Raptors land right now: What exactly has changed?

According to Smith, one factor stands above the rest — the arrival of Brandon Ingram.

While the team saw improvements across the board, including Jakob Poeltl’s return to reliable form, Ingram’s playmaking and scoring versatility have fundamentally reshaped Toronto’s offensive flow. His presence has given Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley more room to operate, unlocking different angles and combinations that were simply unavailable earlier in the season.

Smith suggests that Ingram is not just an addition — he is the central driver of the Raptors’ newfound success.

The Sky Was Falling… Until It Wasn’t

Two weeks ago, Toronto’s season seemed imperiled. Today, fans are cautiously optimistic. Smith stresses the importance of evaluating teams after the 20-game threshold, a milestone historically seen as a reliable sample size for identifying trends. With the Raptors approaching that benchmark, the signs are encouraging.

Water Bottle Controversy: A Non-Story?

One fan raised questions about the so-called “water bottle incident,” where a player’s frustrated toss splashed a nearby official.

Smith’s take? It was nothing more than an accidental, heat-of-the-moment lapse.

He insists the reaction to the incident has been wildly exaggerated. An immediate apology was made, no harm was intended and everyone involved moved on. Smith likens it to a baseball manager flipping the post-game buffet table — not ideal, but certainly not scandalous.

How Far Can the Celtics Go?

Is a Midseason Trade the Answer?

While the Raptors continue trending upward, the Boston Celtics are hovering around the .500 mark, raising questions about their postseason outlook. Some fans speculate that a trade deadline move might position them for a deeper playoff push.

Smith, however, is not convinced.

From what he hears, Boston is content with taking what he calls a “financial gap year.” Translation: Do not expect splashy moves, even if the team remains inconsistent through February. Their priorities, for now, appear focused on long-term flexibility rather than immediate contention.

The Raptors’ Rotation Challenge

Who Should Solidify the Bench?

Another major question revolves around Toronto’s bench picture. With Jamal Shead, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Murray-Boyles emerging as the primary reserves, the battle for remaining minutes has intensified.

Players like Gradey Dick, Ochai Agbaji and Ja’Kobe Walter are all vying for consistent roles, though none have fully cemented their place.

Smith believes Dick has now established himself as the most reliable option of the group. If he were to choose one player to expand the bench rotation further, he leans toward Jamison Battle — a pure shooter whose scoring ability could bolster Toronto’s second unit.

The Dream Addition?

As a bonus exercise, Smith entertained one question about a hypothetical player addition.

While some fans dream about inserting Anthony Davis into the Raptors lineup, Smith disagrees. For him, the perfect fit — even as an off-the-bench luxury — would be Lauri Markkanen, whose shooting and size could seamlessly complement Toronto’s core.

Assessing Luka Doncic’s Defensive Effort

A reader wondered whether Luka Doncic’s slimmer frame had improved his defensive impact with the Lakers.

Smith says he hasn’t noticed any significant defensive leap. The Lakers, sitting around 21st in defensive rating, remain shaky on that end. With LeBron James expected to return and stabilize the back line, minor improvements may come — but Smith does not foresee a dramatic transformation.

Behind the Scenes: How Strong Is Toronto’s Scouting Department?

Has the Raptors’ Draft Strategy Lost Its Magic?

Toronto has long been praised for uncovering hidden gems — from Pascal Siakam to OG Anunoby. But some fans believe the last few drafts have yielded more misses than hits.

Smith pushes back.

According to him, the Raptors’ scouting department remains largely unchanged in size and structure, operating under assistant GM Dan Tolzman. He argues that recent criticism overlooks Toronto’s strong undrafted finds like Jamal Shead and Jamison Battle, and that it is far too early to judge the 2024 class.

The reality, he says, is simple: the NBA draft is fundamentally unpredictable. Every team misses more often than it hits. Toronto, in his assessment, continues to sit comfortably in the league’s upper-middle tier when it comes to identifying talent.

Conclusion: A Team Finding Its Identity

As the Raptors approach the 20-game mark, their season feels dramatically different than it did just weeks ago. Brandon Ingram’s influence has unlocked new possibilities, the bench is beginning to take shape, and the team appears to be gaining confidence at the right time.

While questions remain about rotation structure, defensive consistency and long-term development, the early signs point to a team moving in the right direction — and a fan base rediscovering its sense of optimism.

UPDATED: Missing Brampton Woman, 70, Safely Located After Extensive Search, Peel Police Confirm

Introduction

A 70-year-old woman reported missing in Brampton earlier this week has been found safe, Peel Regional Police announced late Monday evening. The case, which drew concern from family members, residents, and local authorities, highlights the critical role of community awareness and rapid response in missing person investigations — particularly those involving vulnerable individuals.

The woman, identified by police only as Donna, disappeared on the afternoon of December 8, prompting an urgent search effort across several Brampton neighbourhoods. After more than a day of public appeals and active police work, officers confirmed shortly before 10 p.m. on December 9 that she had been located.

While police did not release details about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance or how she was found, they expressed relief at the positive outcome and extended appreciation to residents who shared information and remained alert during the search.

Timeline of the Disappearance

Last Known Location

According to Peel Regional Police, Donna was last seen around 3:45 p.m. on Monday, December 8, in the vicinity of Northwood Drive and Welbeck Drive — a residential area near several parks, schools, and community spaces. The location is known for moderate foot traffic during the day but becomes quieter in the late afternoon and evening, making it crucial for investigators to quickly establish a timeline of her movements.

Initial Response

After Donna was reported missing, officers initiated standard missing person protocols, which include:

• Conducting door-to-door inquiries

• Reviewing potential surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses

• Speaking with friends, neighbours, and anyone who may have had recent contact with her

• Assessing whether there were any known medical concerns or mobility issues that could increase the level of risk

Because Donna is a senior and was alone at the time she disappeared, the case was treated with a heightened sense of urgency.

Peel Police Issue Public Appeal

Why Public Alerts Are Crucial in Missing Senior Cases

Early on December 9, Peel Regional Police issued a formal alert to the public, sharing a description of the missing woman and urging residents to stay vigilant. These alerts are an essential tool in cases involving older adults who may be unfamiliar with their surroundings, living with medical conditions such as dementia, or at risk of becoming disoriented.

In Donna’s case, police omitted her last name to protect her privacy, a common practice when families request limited disclosure or when investigators determine that full identification is unnecessary for locating the individual.

Public appeals leverage several critical channels:

• Social media platforms, where information spreads rapidly

• Local news outlets, which amplify alerts to a wider audience

• Neighbourhood groups and community networks that often mobilize quickly in emergencies

• Regional communication systems, allowing officers to collaborate with other police services in case the individual travels outside the city

The hours immediately following a disappearance are often considered the most important, as early visibility greatly increases the likelihood of a safe recovery.

Community Concern and Increased Awareness

Residents Join Efforts to Assist

Within hours of the public notice, Brampton residents began circulating the missing person alert across social media, with many community members posting in neighbourhood discussions and sharing the police bulletin. Peel Region has a history of strong community involvement in missing person cases, often contributing valuable tips or sightings that help narrow search zones.

Residents living near Northwood Drive and Welbeck Drive reported increased police presence during the afternoon and evening of December 9, with officers canvassing the area, checking common walking paths, and speaking with passerby who may have noticed unusual activity.

Vulnerable Older Adults and Wandering Risks

Wandering is a known concern for seniors, especially those who may be coping with:

• Cognitive decline

• Memory-related conditions

• Confusion triggered by stress, unfamiliar surroundings, or changes in routine

Even when no confirmed medical condition exists, older adults are statistically more likely to become lost or disoriented, particularly in colder weather when daylight hours are shorter. Such factors make community assistance even more valuable, as neighbours often serve as the first line of observation.

Police Confirm Donna Has Been Located

A Positive Outcome

At approximately 9:50 p.m. on December 9, Peel Regional Police issued a welcome update:

“We are glad to share that Donna has been located.”

The short statement, shared publicly on social platforms and through police communication channels, signaled the end of the search and the safe recovery of the missing woman. Officers did not release further information about where she was found or her condition, citing privacy considerations — a standard approach in non-criminal missing person cases.

Family members, who had been anxiously awaiting updates throughout the day, expressed gratitude to police and community members for their efforts.

Understanding Missing Person Protocols in Ontario

How Police Prioritize Cases

Ontario police services classify missing persons based on several factors, including:

• Age and vulnerability

• Known medical, mental health, or mobility issues

• Weather conditions

• Time elapsed since last contact

• Circumstances of the disappearance

When seniors go missing, especially without necessary medication or support, the case is usually escalated swiftly due to increased risk. Although not every missing senior case triggers an Amber Alert–style broadcast, police often deploy additional resources such as search teams, K9 units, or aerial support depending on the situation.

Collaboration With Family and Health Services

In such cases, officers often work closely with:

• Family members

• Caregivers

• Health professionals

• Emergency service partners

This collaboration ensures that authorities understand the individual’s habits, routines, and possible destinations — information that can significantly speed up search efforts.

Community Safety Initiatives for Supporting Seniors

Programs That Help Prevent Similar Incidents

Peel Region and other municipalities across Canada have introduced several programs intended to reduce the risk of seniors becoming lost or endangered. These include:

1. Vulnerable Person Registry

Some police services offer voluntary registries where families can provide details about individuals who may be at risk of wandering. This information assists officers in locating them quickly should they go missing.

2. Identification Bracelets or Cards

Medical alert bracelets, ID cards, and GPS-based devices help ensure that first responders can identify an individual and contact their family promptly.

3. Community Awareness Campaigns

Local community centres, senior living residences, and healthcare organizations frequently run programs that bring attention to the risks seniors face when navigating alone.

4. Neighbourhood Watch and Community Networks

Modern neighbourhood support groups, often organized online, can rapidly mobilize whenever a vulnerable person is reported missing.

Such initiatives have proven effective across the province, underscoring the importance of community involvement not only during search efforts but also in prevention.

Reflections on the Case and Its Broader Implications

A Reminder of the Importance of Vigilance

While Donna’s safe recovery is cause for relief, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges older community members may face and the importance of swift action when a disappearance occurs.

Families, caregivers, and neighbours play a vital role in maintaining awareness of vulnerable individuals’ well-being. Even small changes in routine or behaviour can be early indicators that additional support may be needed.

Police Encourage Continued Community Engagement

Peel Regional Police routinely emphasize that the public is an essential partner in missing person investigations. Accurate tips, timely reporting, and shared information significantly improve outcomes.

The service continues to encourage residents to:

• Report missing persons immediately, especially seniors

• Provide as much detail as possible to officers

• Assist police searches when requested

• Stay informed through official communication channels

Conclusion

The safe location of 70-year-old Donna brings a positive end to what could have been a far more troubling situation. As Peel Regional Police, family members, and the local community come together to acknowledge the successful resolution, the case underscores the crucial role that rapid response, thorough investigation, and community cooperation play in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

As cities like Brampton continue to grow and diversify, maintaining strong community ties and prioritizing the safety of seniors will remain a key focus for local authorities. This incident serves as both a relief and a reminder — that while emergencies may arise unexpectedly, collective vigilance and timely intervention can make all the difference.

Brampton Man Fatally Shot in Targeted Attack as Peel Police Launch Intensive Homicide Investigation

A 25-year-old Brampton man was killed Monday evening after shots were fired at a vehicle in a busy commercial area, prompting a large-scale homicide investigation and renewed police appeals for witnesses. Peel Regional Police say the incident, which unfolded shortly after 7 p.m. on December 8, has left an entire community searching for answers while investigators work around the clock to track down the suspects.

A Fatal Shooting in a Public Parking Lot

Gunfire Erupts Near Hurontario Street and Bartley Bull Parkway

According to Peel Regional Police, the shooting occurred in the parking lot near Hurontario Street and Bartley Bull Parkway—an area frequently used by visitors to the nearby Shopper’s World plaza. Officers were called to the scene after multiple reports of gunfire directed toward a parked vehicle.

When police arrived, they discovered a man inside the vehicle who appeared unresponsive. Const. Mandeep Khatra, speaking to reporters at the scene, explained that officers immediately attempted to gain entry into the vehicle to assist the victim.

Officers Break Window to Perform Life-Saving Efforts

In an urgent attempt to reach the man, officers broke one of the vehicle’s windows and began providing emergency medical care. Despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Police later confirmed that he was a Brampton resident, though his identity has not yet been released pending next-of-kin notification.

The dramatic nature of the emergency response, paired with the location’s proximity to a highly populated commercial hub, has heightened concerns among residents who regularly use the area.

Investigators Believe the Attack Was Targeted

No Risk to the Broader Public, Police Say

While details remain limited, investigators believe the shooting was a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence. Const. Khatra emphasized that although the incident is deeply troubling, there is currently no indication of an ongoing threat to the general public.

“What’s happened here is terrible,” Khatra said during media briefings. “But at the same time, we’re glad that nobody else was hurt in this incident. I can assure you that investigators are going to be working on this non-stop until they can try to figure out further leads.”

The suspects reportedly fled the scene before police arrived, and as of Tuesday morning, no arrests had been made.

Homicide Unit Takes Over the Case

Given the nature of the incident and the victim’s death, Peel police have officially reclassified the case as a homicide. A team of specialized investigators has now taken over, conducting interviews, reviewing surveillance footage, and collecting forensic evidence from the crime scene.

Homicide detectives are expected to remain on site for an extended period as they continue gathering information.

Area Cordon and Traffic Disruptions

Portion of Shopper’s World Parking Lot Closed

On Tuesday morning, Peel police confirmed that a section of the Shopper’s World parking lot remained cordoned off to preserve evidence and allow officers to continue their investigation. The closure impacted both vehicle and pedestrian access in the immediate vicinity, though businesses in the shopping centre continued to operate.

The high visibility of the police presence drew attention from shoppers, employees, and local residents, many of whom expressed shock that such an incident had occurred in an area known for heavy foot traffic and evening activity.

Business Owners and Shoppers React

Although police have reassured the public that the attack was isolated, the shooting has left business owners unsettled. Several staff members at nearby stores said they were startled by the sudden influx of emergency vehicles and expressed concern for their own safety during late-night operating hours.

Residents who frequent the plaza echoed similar sentiments, saying they hope police will release more information soon to ease anxieties and help the community better understand what transpired.

Few Details Released About Suspects

No Suspect Descriptions Provided

Despite ongoing inquiries, investigators have not yet released descriptions of the suspects involved. Police have not confirmed whether one or multiple individuals were responsible or if the shooters arrived on foot or in a separate vehicle.

The absence of suspect details has prompted police to renew their call for public assistance, urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area to come forward.

Appeal for Witnesses and Surveillance Footage

Police are specifically asking for information from individuals who were in or around the busy commercial zone on Monday evening, as well as from motorists or local businesses that may have dashcam or security footage capturing the moments before or after the shooting.

Residents with any relevant information are urged to contact Peel police at 905-453-3311. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers.

Community Impact and Ongoing Concerns

Growing Worries About Violence in Peel Region

The deadly shooting has once again placed a spotlight on violent crime trends in the region. Although Peel police have consistently reported ongoing community engagement efforts and targeted enforcement strategies, high-profile incidents such as this continue to raise public concern.

For many Brampton residents, the fact that the shooting occurred in a location frequently visited by families, commuters, and students intensifies the emotional impact of the tragedy.

Calls for More Visibility and Prevention Measures

In the wake of the incident, some community members are calling for increased police presence in public areas and improved security measures in parking lots. Local advocacy groups argue that enhanced lighting, expanded surveillance coverage, and quicker reporting mechanisms may help deter future incidents.

City officials have not yet issued a formal response regarding long-term safety measures but have expressed support for the ongoing investigation.

Police Continue to Pursue Leads

Investigators Working “Non-Stop”

Peel police say their investigative teams are reviewing every available lead and piecing together the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting. Const. Khatra reiterated that officers remain committed to identifying those responsible and providing answers to the victim’s family and the broader community.

Investigators are expected to release updates as new information becomes available, though they have cautioned that the early stages of homicide investigations can be complex and time-consuming.

Conclusion: Community Awaits Answers as Investigation Intensifies

The fatal shooting of a 25-year-old Brampton man has left a community shaken and searching for clarity. With suspects still at large and few public details released so far, many residents are anxiously awaiting developments in the police investigation.

As officers continue to gather evidence and canvass the area for witnesses, police are urging anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to contact investigators. Their goal is not only to solve the case but also to restore a sense of safety to a community deeply affected by this tragic event.

Ontario Unveils Highway 410 Extension Plan as Part of Advancing Highway 413 Project

Brampton Highrise Proposal Sent Back for Further Review Amid Intensifying Resident Concerns

Brampton and Mississauga Condo Prices Hit Multi-Year Lows Amid Prolonged Market Slowdown

Introduction

The real estate landscape in Peel Region has shifted dramatically in 2025, with condo prices in both Brampton and Mississauga falling to their lowest levels since the early months of the pandemic. According to the latest market figures released by the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), the steady downturn in average selling prices—particularly within the condominium apartment category—signals a broader reset in two of the Greater Toronto Area’s (GTA) most active housing markets.

While the GTA as a whole continues to grapple with affordability pressures, elevated borrowing costs, and uncertain economic conditions, the sharp decline in condo values across these neighbouring cities is drawing the attention of buyers, sellers, and market analysts alike. The data reveal a significant shift in demand patterns, with many potential purchasers waiting on the sidelines and investors reassessing their long-term strategies.

Condo Market Weakens Across Peel Region

Prices Fall to Lowest Point in Years

TRREB’s recent sales report confirms that average condo apartment prices in both Brampton and Mississauga have declined to levels not seen since the pandemic era. While price fluctuations are not unusual in the region’s dynamic real estate market, the sustained downward trend throughout 2025 marks a noteworthy change in market sentiment.

Industry experts say the decline is driven by a combination of lower buyer confidence, rising inventory, and hesitation brought on by persistent interest-rate pressures. Although the Bank of Canada has taken a cautious approach to rate adjustments through the year, borrowing costs remain significantly higher than the historic lows seen in 2020–2021—conditions that previously fuelled rapid price appreciation.

Impact of Slower Market Activity

The cooling trend has not been confined to condos alone. Detached, semi-detached, and townhouse segments have also experienced softer demand, though their price drops have been less pronounced than those seen in the condominium category.

Condo apartments, traditionally the most affordable entry point for first-time homebuyers in the region, have proven more sensitive to economic headwinds. With more listings hitting the market each month and fewer active buyers competing for units, the environment has shifted decisively in favour of purchasers.

Why Are Condo Prices Declining?

Higher Borrowing Costs Continue to Shape Buyer Behaviour

One of the dominant drivers behind the price decline is the cost of borrowing. Even modest interest rate increases have a disproportionate impact on condo buyers, many of whom operate within tighter budget constraints compared to detached-home purchasers. When mortgage payments rise, demand naturally cools—especially among first-time buyers.

Real estate economists note that many individuals who might otherwise consider purchasing a condo are pausing their plans until either interest rates decrease further or prices stabilize. This shift in behaviour has contributed to a buildup of unsold inventory, adding downward pressure on prices.

Investor Pullback Intensifies

Another significant factor is the growing reluctance among small-scale investors. For years, condos in Mississauga and Brampton were favoured investment properties due to their relative affordability and strong rental demand. However, higher mortgage rates have eroded profitability, particularly for investors relying on rent to offset monthly carrying costs.

Some investors are opting to sell existing units rather than acquire new ones, increasing supply in a market where buyer activity is already subdued.

Mississauga: A Market Losing Momentum

Former High-Demand Hub Sees Sharp Correction

Mississauga, once considered one of the most desirable and active condo markets in the GTA, has undergone a notable correction in 2025. Its city centre—home to the iconic Square One district and numerous high-rise developments—has been particularly affected.

As more units from previously launched preconstruction projects reach occupancy, the resale market has become crowded. Combined with softer demand, this has led to price reductions that stand out even in comparison with other GTA markets.

Increased Choice for Buyers

For prospective buyers, the silver lining is the increased variety of condos available at more competitive prices. Those who were previously priced out of Mississauga’s booming market now have a rare opportunity to enter the market at a more accessible price point. Real estate agents report that units which once received multiple offers are now sitting longer, giving buyers greater bargaining power and flexibility.

Brampton: Affordability Improves but Signals Mixed Market Conditions

Market Sees Gradual Yet Consistent Price Declines

Brampton’s condo market has followed a similar downward trajectory, with average prices sliding steadily throughout 2025. Historically, Brampton’s condo sector has been smaller than Mississauga’s but has grown significantly over the past decade as developers respond to population growth and housing demand.

The recent price drop is partly attributed to a surge in new listings coupled with reduced purchasing activity. Some sellers have adjusted expectations in response to prolonged listing times, contributing to deeper price cuts.

First-Time Buyers Reconsidering Their Options

For first-time homebuyers, Brampton’s lower prices present a compelling advantage compared to both Mississauga and Toronto. However, uncertainty—driven by macroeconomic factors—has prevented many from making definitive moves. Some prefer to save longer, anticipating further price reductions or improved lending conditions.

Despite the hesitation, realtors expect that the dip in Brampton condo prices will eventually reenergize buyer interest, particularly among young families transitioning from rental housing.

Market Experts Predict Slow Recovery, Not Immediate Rebound

Outlook for 2026

Analysts maintain that while the condo market in Brampton and Mississauga has cooled significantly, the decline does not indicate a long-term collapse. Instead, the trends point to a market correction after years of rapid appreciation.

TRREB economists suggest that prices may stabilize sometime in 2026, depending on external factors such as interest rate movements, employment stability, and consumer confidence. If borrowing costs ease as projected, demand for condos—especially from first-time buyers and investors—could rebound gradually.

What Sellers Should Expect

Sellers in both cities are advised to adopt realistic pricing strategies and prepare for potentially longer listing timelines. Industry professionals emphasize that while demand has softened, condos in well-maintained buildings and desirable locations remain competitive when priced appropriately.

Opportunities for Buyers

On the buyer side, the current market provides a rare opening. Those with stable employment and solid financial footing may find 2025–2026 an ideal time to purchase a condo at prices unseen in several years. With more negotiation room and less competition, buyers have the chance to secure strong long-term value.

Conclusion: A Market Reset Rather Than a Downturn

Condo prices in Brampton and Mississauga reaching multi-year lows is a significant milestone—but not one without context. The decline represents a broader recalibration of the housing market as it adjusts to economic realties, shifting buyer priorities, and the lingering effects of elevated interest rates.

As both cities navigate these changes, the coming year will be crucial in determining how quickly confidence returns. For now, the Peel Region condo market stands at a crossroads—offering challenges for sellers but considerable opportunities for buyers ready to take advantage of historically favourable conditions.