In the early hours of May 23, a mysterious figure was caught on video vandalizing the Parkside Drive speed enforcement camera, raising questions about the ongoing sabotage of this crucial safety measure. The surveillance footage, obtained by CityNews, shows a hooded individual using a step ladder and a cutting tool to dismantle the camera before disappearing into the night.
The video, captured by a concerned citizen’s trail camera, marks the fifth instance of vandalism targeting the camera. Safe Parkside, a community group dedicated to enhancing road safety, expressed dismay over the repeated attacks on a device meant to protect lives.
The Parkside Drive camera was installed following a tragic accident in 2021 that claimed the lives of two seniors, leading to over 69,000 tickets and $7 million in fines being issued. Despite multiple incidents of vandalism, the culprits remain at large, prompting frustrations among community members and safety advocates.
Faraz Gholizadeh, co-chair of Safe Parkside, emphasized the importance of the camera in preventing further tragedies on the road. The group’s efforts to advocate for additional safety measures, such as street redesign, have faced obstacles, with calls for action going unanswered by authorities.
While Toronto police continue their investigation into the vandalism incidents, the community remains vigilant in protecting their streets and demanding accountability for those responsible.
Keyphrase: Parkside Drive vandalism