Toronto police have charged a 36-year-old man with assault and criminal harassment after a hate-motivated attack on a Durham Regional Transit bus in Scarborough on April 13, 2026. The incident, captured on video and shared by the National Council of Canadian Muslims, shows the suspect yelling profanities and kicking a hijab-wearing woman while calling her a “terrorist.”
Thirukumaran Kandasamy, of Toronto, was arrested Wednesday and faces court later this summer. The investigation was led by Toronto Police’s Hate Crime Unit.
What happened during the assault?
The attack occurred on a bus near Progress Avenue and Milner Avenue in Scarborough. According to police, Kandasamy allegedly approached the victim, made derogatory anti-Muslim comments, and physically assaulted her before exiting the bus. The National Council of Canadian Muslims posted the video on social media, confirming the victim was wearing a hijab and was targeted with slurs.
Why does this case matter?
This incident underscores ongoing concerns about hate crimes in Canada, particularly those motivated by Islamophobia. The Toronto Police Service’s Hate Crime Unit has increasingly focused on such cases, reflecting broader societal challenges. The video’s circulation highlights how digital evidence can amplify accountability in public spaces.
Did You Know? Scarborough, where the attack occurred, has seen a 22% rise in reported hate crimes since 2023, according to Toronto Police Service data.
What happens next?
Kandasamy’s court appearance later this summer could determine whether charges are upheld or expanded. Prosecutors may seek additional penalties if hate-motivated factors are proven. The case could also influence public discourse on transit safety and hate crime responses.
Expert Insight: Hate crime prosecutions often hinge on establishing intent—here, the video and victim’s testimony provide critical evidence. If convicted, Kandasamy could face up to 10 years in prison for assault, with enhanced penalties for hate-motivated offenses under Canadian law.
How does this compare to other hate crime cases?
This case mirrors a 2025 incident in Vancouver, where a transit-related hate crime against a Sikh man led to a similar charge of assault with a hate-motivated component. Both cases reflect how public transit—often a shared space—can become a flashpoint for bias. Unlike those cases, however, this assault was recorded and widely shared, increasing pressure for swift justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested? Thirukumaran Kandasamy, 36, of Toronto, was charged with assault and criminal harassment.
Where did the attack occur? The incident took place on a Durham Regional Transit bus near Progress Avenue and Milner Avenue in Scarborough.
What evidence was used? Police relied on a video posted by the National Council of Canadian Muslims, showing the assault and verbal abuse.
What concerns you most about rising hate crimes in public spaces?