A man involved in a shooting with police in Welland is still hospitalized following an exchange of gunfire. The suspect, identified as Daniel Tronko, 59, is expected to face additional charges after a standoff that lasted nearly 24 hours. The incident took place in the vicinity of Plymouth Road and Second Street, where authorities had issued a shelter-in-place order.
The altercation began when police were assisting bylaw officers with a property dispute at an old church converted into a residence. Tronko allegedly opened fire at the officers, resulting in an officer being shot in the chest. Fortunately, the injured officer has been released from the hospital with minor injuries.
During the standoff, police attempted to negotiate with Tronko by deploying remote cameras, all of which were destroyed by gunfire. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s injury sustained during the exchange with the police.
Tronko, known for previous bylaw infractions related to property issues, including fencing disputes and unauthorized digging, has been a familiar figure in the Welland community. He had a reputation for being protective of his property rights and had engaged with city officials on various occasions.
The site of the incident, known as the Church of Higher Consciousness, has Tronko listed as one of its elders on the board of directors. The police and SIU are working to uncover more details about the shooting and are asking for the public’s assistance in providing any relevant information or evidence.
The events on Friday led to temporary road closures and lockdowns at local establishments, but the restrictions have since been lifted as authorities assure the public that there is no lingering safety threat in the area.