News is trickling in via Twitter and TV that a flare set off at Spadina and Queen West has shut down traffic, including all TTC service, at the busy intersection. Reports indicate that the crowd’s "change in dynamics" has inspired police to put on gas masks and send in mounted units. Emergency services are unable to get through the thick crowds to attend to individuals with alleged head wounds. A Toronto Life reporter has just confirmed that a police vehicle has had its windows smashed.
As for the TTC, the Red Rocket has cancelled subway service south of Bloor Street and killed service on the following routes: 5,6,65,75,94,501,504,505,506,509,510. Mysteriously, the 511 is still running up Bathurst (for now). Subways are not presently being replaced by shuttle buses.
Images of the smoky brouhaha can been seen via Twitter here and here, while cops getting into their riot gear can be seen here.
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