A man and a woman in their 30s are hospitalized with serious injuries following a shooting in King West Village early Friday morning. The incident occurred just before 2:45 a.m. near a condominium complex at the intersection of King Street West and Sudbury Avenue.

Toronto Police reported that a group of friends was walking in the area when they were approached by a male on a bicycle. Duty Insp. Todd Jocko stated that after a brief exchange of words, the group continued on their way. Shortly after, the same individual returned, brandished a firearm, and opened fire on the group before fleeing westbound on Sudbury Street.

"This was a violent and brazen act," Jocko said during a press briefing at the scene. He noted that both victims are in serious condition, and their injuries are considered life-threatening. Police believe the shooting was targeted, but there is no indication that the shooter and victims were previously acquainted.

At the scene, investigators found at least 10 yellow evidence markers, indicating multiple shell casings. Forensic officers were seen collecting evidence, including a blood-covered handbag and discarded women's slides. Large pools of blood were visible in the laneway and on the sidewalk beside a parked grey Mini Cooper, where the injured woman was located.

Residents reported hearing screams and the sound of a motorcycle or dirt bike speeding away. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described hearing screams for help and witnessing the aftermath. "I walked around the corner and saw a girl; she didn’t have her shirt on, and I think she must have been using it to stop the bleeding," he recalled.

Another resident, Joe Koole, reported being awakened by the sound of revving engines and gunfire. He noted that his wife heard the shots, but he only heard the commotion that followed. Police have cordoned off parts of the area as they canvass for witnesses and video footage that could assist in the investigation.

Authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage from the area to come forward. "Even the smallest detail could help us to move this investigation forward," Jocko said. Residents can expect an increased police presence in the coming days as the investigation continues.