Kyle Douglas Prouse. CTV
Toronto police have launched a search for a man accused of shooting a security guard during a robbery attempt at Fairview Mall on Tuesday morning.
Shooting During Morning Hours
The incident took place shortly after 10 a.m. at the mall near Sheppard Avenue East and Don Mills Road. Investigators say the suspect arrived just before opening time with plans to rob a jewelry store.
“It appears the suspect attended the mall just before opening with the intent of robbing a jewelry store,” Insp. Kristy Smith told reporters at the scene.
Confrontation Turns Violent
As the suspect tried to leave the store, a mall security guard approached him. During that brief encounter, the suspect fired a shot.
“As the suspect was fleeing, he was confronted by a member of the mall’s security team. During that interaction, the security guard was shot,” Smith said.
The guard suffered a gunshot wound to the midsection. Emergency crews rushed him to hospital in life-threatening condition. Police later confirmed that his condition has stabilized.
“Our thoughts are with the victim who is a member of the mall security team and works closely with our officers on a regular basis,” Smith said.
Suspect Identified and Still at Large
Police have identified the suspect as 53-year-old Kyle Douglas Prouse from Montreal. Investigators believe he acted alone and carried out the robbery with planning.
“It appears that this was planned,” Smith said. “He attended at the time the mall was opening… right after the store opened.”
Authorities say the suspect fled the scene in a black Honda Accord. He was last seen heading south on Don Mills Road.
Police also confirmed that Prouse has connections to Toronto and Vancouver. He is also wanted in connection with a break-and-enter case in Durham Region from August 2023.
Witnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
Witnesses inside the mall described a sudden and frightening moment. A mall employee said he heard a warning just before the shot.
“I didn’t see him (the suspect) physically. He came in (with) a box and a duffel bag,” said 32-year-old Romal Patel.
He added that a woman shouted, “I saw the gun,” moments before the shooting.
“I heard the shot, (a) loud bang, and saw the victim fall down,” Patel said.
After the shooting, staff and security members quickly stepped in to help the injured guard until paramedics arrived.
Police Appeal for Information
Investigators say the suspect took some jewelry while escaping, though police have not confirmed the value of the stolen items. They also noted that the store had faced robbery attempts in the past.
Officers have increased their presence in the area following the incident. Police have asked anyone who witnessed the event or has video footage to come forward.
“We understand how concerning this is,” Smith said, adding that officers will remain visible in the community for some time.
