On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, St. Thomas Aquinas Secondary School in Brampton, Ontario, was placed under lockdown following reports of a shooting incident on campus. Peel Regional Police responded swiftly, securing the premises and ensuring the safety of students and staff. As of now, no injuries have been reported, and authorities are actively investigating the situation.
This incident is part of a concerning pattern of threats and violence affecting schools in the Peel Region. In March 2023, six high schools, including St. Thomas Aquinas, received online threats indicating plans to “shoot them up.” These threats, disseminated via social media platforms like Snapchat, prompted increased security measures and heightened anxiety among students, parents, and educators.
The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) has faced criticism over its handling of such incidents, with calls for greater transparency and proactive measures to address safety concerns. Community members and advocacy groups have emphasized the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure the well-being of students and staff in the face of these challenges.
As investigations continue into the April 30 incident, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in ensuring the safety and security of all educational institutions in the region.