A large procession of up to 1,000 members of the Hells Angels will pass through the east end of the city in commemoration on Thursday afternoon.
Yesterday, Toronto police said they were notified of an “unsanctioned event” scheduled to begin around 11 a.m. today.
Police said they expect a large group of 800 to 1,000 motorcyclists to leave Newmarket and head south on Don Valley Parkway before heading east on Lake Shore Boulevard East and then north on Carlaw Avenue.
“This procession will inevitably lead to traffic difficulties in our city. We are working with other police services, including the OPP and York Regional Police, to manage traffic and ensure public safety during this procession,” Supt. Scott Baptiste told reporters on Wednesday.
Baptiste said the gathering was being held in honor of an unnamed former Hells Angel and was separate from the motorcycle club’s national race set for this weekend in Whitby.
Drivers should expect traffic difficulties on the above roads from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Traffic delays and road closures are also expected in the Carlaw area and Eastern Avenues from 11am
Baptiste said Leslieville residents can expect an increased police presence this afternoon.
“As with any large gathering in our city, TPS will have visible resources in the area to ensure public safety and minimize disruption and manage traffic issues,” Baptiste said.
People are advised to check social media for updates on the procession.
Today’s rally is expected to end around 7pm
With files from CP24’s Joanna Lavoie
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