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Weekly Toronto Apr 13 - Apr 19, 2026

Hoops, Hurricanes & Happenings — Your Toronto Week in Review

48 articles 1 month ago 212

🏀 Sports Surge

The Raptors are back, but did they forget how to play? In a surprising Game 1 loss, Toronto fell 126-113 to Cleveland. Fans are left wondering if the team is ready for a comeback or if they just need to rewatch some game tapes (again).

Excitement is high as NHL playoffs kick off. Three Canadian teams – the Senators, Canadiens, and Oilers – are vying for the top prize, igniting a hockey fever that has even the most apathetic fans scrambling for jerseys.

Raptors fans are going all out! One diehard, Arno Yellowman, traveled from Sarnia in a camouflage Raptors costume to rally support in Cleveland. Who knew dressing like a forest would help on the court?

🌊 Weather Woes

Flooding chaos brings anxiety to Ontario, Quebec. Rising waters along the Ottawa River in Gatineau have left many homes at risk, causing street closures and prompting emergency responses. It's a challenging time for homeowners, with nature not holding back on its spring surprises.

A string of warnings as more rain threatens already soaked areas. As the ground struggles to soak in more rain, drivers are advised to stay vigilant, or they might find themselves navigating more than just puddles this week.

🏢 City Hall Chatter

Toronto shows its heart with support for Lebanon. City council endorsed fundraising efforts for those affected by recent violence, a reminder that even amid local struggles, the community doesn’t forget its global connections.

Ford’s government speedy reforms on FOI laws draw ire. The Ontario government is fast-tracking controversial changes that may limit public access to government information. As transparency raises eyebrows, citizens find themselves wondering just how open their government really is.

🏠 Community Concerns

Toronto tenants are banding together amid a rent crisis. With escalating costs making life unbearable for many, a new tenant union emerges, aiming to give renters a stronger voice. It seems the city might be in for a showdown over housing rights.

The public reacts to Ford's proposed private jet sale. After backlash regarding a $28.9M jet tasked for the premier, it appears our provincial budget may be getting a re-evaluation. Some feel it’s time to put those funds back into community services instead of the sky.

🚓 Crime & Safety

A mother’s tragic death steers conversations on mental health. Colin Hatcher, found guilty of second-degree murder, highlights the importance of mental health resources as tragedies unfold all too often. Discussions are critical as the community seeks better support for those in need.

Local police bust an AI fraud scheme in Toronto. Smart technology, it turns out, doesn't just help the innocent. Seven people face charges after using AI tools maliciously in a scheme to defraud local stores. Talk about a plot twist.

🎉 Good Vibes

TTC gets ready for the World Cup with transport solutions! As Toronto prepares for the rush, transit plans include express shuttles and more service, ensuring everyone gets to their destination. With rising fare worries elsewhere, Torontonians can cheer for affordable trips!

🎬 Behind the Scenes

Explosions during a film shoot leave locals rattled. A loud blast near Downsview Park, confirmed to be part of a controlled filming, sent residents buzzing with concern. Turns out it wasn't a disaster movie, just Hollywood making its stamp in Toronto.

Keep an eye on these stories, Toronto! It's a wild ride out there, but together we can navigate the ups and downs.

Source Articles (51)

Proposal to include Snuneymuxw reserves in Nanaimo city boundaries passes alternative approval process

An alternative approval process to change the boundaries of the City of Nanaimo to include Snuneymuxw First Nation reserves that were historically left out of the municipality has passed.

General Apr 17, 2026

Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen reflects on his mission — its challenges and its joy

Jeremy Hansen sat down with CBC News to share some of his insights, like how he felt during lift-off, the joy the mission brought him, and that one time he accidentally let a water bag explode in the capsule.

General Apr 17, 2026

Inside a hub Doug Ford claims will help fix the drug crisis

A rare look inside one of Toronto's HART Hubs, Doug Ford's replacement to the provincially funded supervised consumption sites.

General Apr 17, 2026

Ontario pushes ahead with medical residency rule change for international students

Ontario is embedding in legislation a policy that would give priority for medical residency positions to applicants with a connection to the province. It requires international graduates to have either gone to school or recently lived in Ontario for 2 years.

General Apr 17, 2026

TTC to add service, express shuttles, later trains to get fans to and from World Cup games

The TTC has unveiled details of plans to get fans to and from FIFA World Cup matches, saying it will rely on a combination of extra service, express bus shuttles and later subway trains on game days.

General Apr 17, 2026

After more than 70 years, Patrician Grill is closing its doors

A long-standing Toronto business has made the difficult decision to close its doors. The Patrician Grill, located on King Street East, was built in the 1950s and has been a family-owned restaurant since 1967. The cozy diner has been serving authentic homemade food to the business crowd, George Brown students and local residents for decades.

General Apr 17, 2026

Ontario government buys $28.9M private jet for Doug Ford's use

The provincial government has purchased a pre-owned private jet for $28.9 million to be used by Ontario Premier Doug Ford.

General Apr 17, 2026

McLaren driver charged after supercar slams into wall, bike rack near Casa Loma

One person has been arrested for impaired driving after a supercar crashed and was stuck propped up against a wall outside Casa Loma.

General Apr 17, 2026

Playoffs give Raptors all-stars Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes a chance to shine

Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes will be centre stage when the Raptors begin their first-round playoff series against the Cavaliers in Cleveland on Saturday afternoon.

General Apr 17, 2026
Explosion during film shoot at Downsview Park rattles Toronto residents

Explosion during film shoot at Downsview Park rattles Toronto residents

A loud controlled explosion heard across parts of Toronto Thursday night was part of a pre-approved film shoot at Downsview Park, police said.

Trending Apr 17, 2026

Toronto endorses fundraising efforts for people affected by fighting in Lebanon: Chow

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow announced Thursday that the city is endorsing fundraising efforts by two charities to help people affected by fighting in Lebanon.

General Apr 17, 2026

IN PHOTOS | Flooding swamps parts of Ontario's cottage country

Warming temperatures and heavy rainfall in parts of Ontario are contributing to rising water levels and flooding in communities like Minden and Bracebridge.

General Apr 17, 2026

SIU investigating Orillia school bus crash where youth was seriously hurt

The provincial Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is now examining the circumstances of a crash where a dump truck collided with a school bus this week in Orillia, Ont., leaving a young person seriously injured.

General Apr 17, 2026

Police investigate assault on Muslim woman on bus in Scarborough caught on video

A woman was allegedly verbally and physically assaulted on a bus in Scarborough this week, which the National Council of Canadian Muslims is identifying as the latest incident of Islamophobia.

General Apr 17, 2026
Toronto man who killed his mother found guilty of 2nd-degree murder

Toronto man who killed his mother found guilty of 2nd-degree murder

A Toronto man who admitted to killing his mother at a park has been found guilty of second-degree murder after a judge rejected his defence that he was not criminally responsible.

Crime Apr 17, 2026
Ontario to bypass public hearings on FOI overhaul that will hide premier’s phone logs

Ontario to bypass public hearings on FOI overhaul that will hide premier’s phone logs

Weeks after tabling the budget, the government has decided to speed its central financial plan and two other pieces of legislation past the traditional process.

Canada Apr 17, 2026
Michael J. Fox Theatre in Burnaby to close to community bookings after June

Michael J. Fox Theatre in Burnaby to close to community bookings after June

At the end of the school year, the Burnaby School District will be transitioning to exclusive use of the Michael J. Fox Theatre.

Politics Apr 17, 2026
Mayor, transport minister promise not to hike Toronto transit fares during World Cup

Mayor, transport minister promise not to hike Toronto transit fares during World Cup

Travel to and from some soccer stadiums in the United States on matchdays is raising concerns for travelling fans, as local agencies hike the cost of a ticket.

Canada Apr 17, 2026
Air Canada to suspend some flights to New York’s JFK over jet fuel costs

Air Canada to suspend some flights to New York’s JFK over jet fuel costs

Air Canada said Friday it will suspend its flights from Toronto and Montreal to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport later this year.

Canada Apr 17, 2026

Ontario's omnibus budget bill includes retroactive clampdown on premier's cellphone records

Ontario Premier Doug Ford's government is planning to skip public hearings to pass its omnibus budget bill that contains a retroactive clampdown on access to his cellphone records.

General Apr 18, 2026

Son found guilty of 2nd-degree murder in mother's death in Etobicoke park

A Toronto man has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of his 69-year-old mother in an Etobicoke park.

General Apr 18, 2026

'I'm just a dude chilling': bbno$ opens up about fame, TikTok and 'diehard cult' fanbase

Canadian artist bbno$ sat down with CBC's Julia Knope to discuss how his authenticity has been the catalyst for his growing success — both in the music industry and on social media.

General Apr 18, 2026
SAIT layoffs highlight funding challenges at Alberta post-secondary schools

SAIT layoffs highlight funding challenges at Alberta post-secondary schools

A decision by the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology to lay off 30 employees is highlighting the funding challenges faced by post-secondary institutions across Alberta.

Education Apr 17, 2026

Niagara-bound lanes of Burlington Skyway Bridge to close Friday night after postponement

After repeated weather-related postponements, all Niagara-bound lanes on the Burlington Skyway Bridge will be closed Friday night, Ontario's Ministry of Transportation says.

General Apr 18, 2026

WNBA's Tempo unveil plans for new dedicated practice facility set to open in 2028

The Toronto Tempo are getting their own practice facility, set to be ready for the 2028 season, and will be built on an "underused" parking lot at Exhibition Place. It will include two WNBA regulation courts, sports medicine, sports performance, and recovery areas, player lounges and locker rooms.

General Apr 18, 2026
Ontario education minister considering social media ban for under 16s

Ontario education minister considering social media ban for under 16s

In an interview with Focus Ontario to discuss his overhaul of school board governance, Minister Paul Calandra said the government is planning the next wave of reforms.

Politics Apr 17, 2026

Murder charges to be withdrawn against alleged poison seller Kenneth Law, lawyer says

Crown prosecutors are withdrawing all 14 murder charges laid against an Ontario man accused of selling a toxic substance to people at risk of self-harm, according to his lawyer. In turn, Kenneth Law will plead guilty to counselling or aiding suicide, Matthew Gourlay told CBC News on Friday evening.

General Apr 18, 2026

Community shocked after judge dismisses charges against driver who killed 3 people

Hundreds of people outside a courtroom expressed shock and dismay Friday after an Ontario judge dismissed dangerous driving causing death charges against a driver who killed three members of a family in a Markham, Ont., crash.

General Apr 18, 2026

Flood warnings in place for Ontario's cottage country as warm temps, rainfall swamp communities

Seasonal flooding is swamping parts of Ontario's cottage country, with warming temperatures and heavy rainfall putting numerous communities under a flood watch and one town declaring a state of emergency.

General Apr 18, 2026

7 charged in scheme that used AI tools to defraud Toronto-area stores: police

Police say they have charged seven people in a fraud investigation after suspects allegedly used AI-enabled tools to target retail locations across the Greater Toronto Area.

General Apr 18, 2026

Toronto tenants launch new citywide union amid ongoing rent crisis and affordability concerns

Organizers say the new union will unite tenants across Toronto to strengthen collective action on rent, housing conditions, and affordability, while landlords and housing providers also weigh in on the tensions in the rental market.

General Apr 18, 2026

The time has come to jump on the Toronto Raptors bandwagon

The NBA's first round of playoffs begin Saturday, and for the first time in four years, the Toronto Raptors will be in the fight. And while the pundits may not be calling for Toronto to come out on top, don't try telling star Scottie Barnes the Raptors are the underdogs.

General Apr 18, 2026
Raptors tap pianist Tony Ann for playoff videos

Raptors tap pianist Tony Ann for playoff videos

The Toronto Raptors are back in the playoffs, and their hype videos are doing things a little differently this time.

Sports Apr 18, 2026

SIU finds officer did not commit criminal offence in shooting of Welland, Ont., man

The province’s police watchdog says it has found “no reasonable grounds” to believe a Niagara Regional Police Service officer committed a criminal offence after a man was shot and wounded during a gunfire exchange in Welland, Ont., in December.

General Apr 18, 2026

Motorcyclist dies after collision with SUV in Hamilton Friday

A collision between a motorcycle and an SUV in Hamilton left one man dead Friday night, police say.

General Apr 18, 2026

Driver dies after vehicle collides with multiple trees in Oshawa neighbourhood, police say

One man is dead after a collision in Oshawa Friday where a vehicle struck multiple trees, police say.

General Apr 18, 2026
Fans travel to support Raptors in Cleveland

Fans travel to support Raptors in Cleveland

Even though he was wearing camouflage, there was no missing Arno Yellowman at Rocket Arena.

Sports Apr 18, 2026
Special weather statements issued for parts of Ontario, Quebec

Special weather statements issued for parts of Ontario, Quebec

Rain warnings are in effect across parts of Ontario and Quebec, with flooding concerns rising as saturated ground and swollen rivers face more rainfall.

Weather Apr 18, 2026
Raps’ Quickley misses Game 1 against Cavs

Raps’ Quickley misses Game 1 against Cavs

Raptors point guard Immanuel Quickley missed Toronto's first-round playoff opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday afternoon due to a mild right hamstring strain.

Sports Apr 18, 2026

Cavaliers overpower Raptors in playoff opener behind strong 2nd half

Donovan Mitchell scored 32 points, Max Strus had 24 off the bench and the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the visiting Toronto Raptors 126-113 on Saturday in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series.

General Apr 19, 2026

Runners hit streets for 10K race in Toronto

Thousands of Torontonians took part in a road race Saturday. The Under Armour 10K race featured a unique route through the downtown core, including Lake Shore Boulevard West. This race also included an 800-metre Kids Race for younger participants. CBC Toronto caught up with some of the runners.

General Apr 19, 2026
NHL Stanley Cup playoffs begin with 3 Canadian teams in contention

NHL Stanley Cup playoffs begin with 3 Canadian teams in contention

The Stanley Cup playoffs begin Saturday as Canadian hockey fans rile up, with Ottawa opening play and Montreal and Edmonton also set to represent Canada.

Sports Apr 18, 2026

Toronto Raptors lose Game 1 of best-of-7 series against the Cleveland Cavaliers

The Toronto Raptors kicked off their first-round playoff matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers Saturday afternoon. The Raptors lost game one 126-113. CBC's Dale Manucdoc and Greg Ross recapped the game and have reaction from fans in Toronto.

General Apr 19, 2026
Raptors fall to Cavaliers in Game 1 as Toronto returns to playoffs

Raptors fall to Cavaliers in Game 1 as Toronto returns to playoffs

The Raptors lost Game 1 to Cleveland in their first playoff appearance in four years, but fans say they remain confident the team can bounce back.

Sports Apr 18, 2026

'We need this': Toronto businesses hoping FIFA’s tourism draw will provide relief after a hard winter

After a tough winter for business, some Toronto entrepreneurs are counting on tourists visiting for the FIFA World Cup to bring in some much-needed traffic.

General Apr 19, 2026

Public grocery stores are having a moment. Can they really make food more affordable?

From Toronto to New York City, politicians want to tackle rising food costs with government-run grocery stores. Politicians championing the plan say these stores would sell staple items at lower prices than private grocery stores. But critics say the idea is half-baked and will only waste public money.

General Apr 19, 2026

Ford, province to sell $28.9M private jet 'as quickly as possible'

Ontario is looking to sell the $28.9 million private jet that was purchased for Ontario Premier Doug Ford's use.

General Apr 19, 2026

Independent grocers impacted by fuel surcharges from food suppliers

While most grocers are bracing for another bout of food inflation, independent grocers expect an even higher bill on their wholesale deliveries as suppliers start charging more to offset fuel costs.

General Apr 19, 2026
Ford grounds Ontario jet purchase after backlash

Ford grounds Ontario jet purchase after backlash

After the Ontario premier's office announced Friday the Ford government spent nearly $30 million on a second-hand private jet, they said Sunday they'd not be keeping it.

Canada Apr 19, 2026
Gatineau homes at risk from rising waters as Ontario, Quebec face flooding concerns

Gatineau homes at risk from rising waters as Ontario, Quebec face flooding concerns

Environment Canada said colder temperatures are expected in the coming days, which could help stabilize river levels across Quebec.

Weather Apr 19, 2026
Film School: Raptors do deep dive on Game 1 loss

Film School: Raptors do deep dive on Game 1 loss

As soon as the final whistle sounded in a disappointing Game 1 loss, Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic and his staff got to work.

Sports Apr 19, 2026