In a decisive move to address escalating violence in the tow truck industry, the Toronto Police Service (TPS) has introduced Project Dodger, aimed at curbing the alarming uptick in shootings and other criminal activities linked to this sector. This initiative comes in response to a troubling pattern of turf wars among a handful of "bad actors" within the tow truck community.

The urgency of this project was underscored by a series of recent violent incidents, including multiple reported shootings in Scarborough that directly involved tow truck drivers. One particularly alarming case involved a targeted drive-by shooting, which left a driver critically injured after assailants opened fire from a dark-coloured Honda.

In an effort to shine a light on the scope of the issue, the TPS released disturbing statistics indicating that, in 2024 alone, disputes related to tow trucks contributed to 63 firearm discharge incidents, making up nearly 13% of all shootings in Toronto. Alarmingly, incidents tied to this industry have surged in 2025, now accounting for a staggering 70% of the city’s shooting incidents.

Project Dodger's primary objective is clear: enhance safety for both tow truck operators and the residents of Toronto. To realize this goal, plainclothes and uniformed officers will be strategically deployed to high-risk areas throughout the city. These officers will not only work to deter violence but will also ensure compliance with industry regulations. Investigations will focus on violent incidents, including gunfire, shootings, and arson, all believed to be linked to ongoing territorial disputes within the tow truck industry.

TPS Superintendent Paul MacIntyre emphasized that the recent spate of violence is predominantly attributed to a small fraction of the industry, reiterating that the majority of tow truck operators are law-abiding citizens. He highlighted the successes of previous initiatives, such as Project Beacon, which improved community safety through cooperation and proactive enforcement.

With Project Dodger set in motion, the Toronto Police Service remains committed to relentless efforts in securing public safety and maintaining order within the city. As the violence rages on, the consequences of inaction become increasingly dire— leading many to wonder: will this new project be the turning point in reclaiming safety for Toronto's streets?