Iranian Activist's Boxing Gym Targeted in Overnight Shooting
York Regional Police are actively investigating an overnight shooting at a boxing gym in Richmond Hill, Ontario, owned by Salar Gholami, a prominent activist for Iranian freedom. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, March 1, 2026, just hours after the announced death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following military strikes by the United States and Israel on Tehran.
Details of the Shooting Incident
According to police reports, the shooting took place at approximately 3:00 a.m. at a commercial property on the east side of Yonge Street, north of Steeles Avenue West in Richmond Hill. The premises, which house the Saliwan Boxing Club, showed clear evidence of gunfire directed at the building. Bullet holes were visible in several windows, and at least two panes were completely shattered. Fortunately, the gym was unoccupied at the time, and there were no reported injuries. Damage was limited to property only.
In a social media post, York Regional Police stated, "The premise shows evidence of gunfire directed at the building. The building was unoccupied at the time of the incident. There were no reported injuries. Damage is limited to property." Police have not released any suspect information at this time and are urging members of the public with relevant video surveillance or witness accounts to come forward.
Activist's Background and Potential Motives
Salar Gholami, a professional boxer and the owner of the targeted gym, has been a vocal critic of the Iranian regime for many years. He has frequently participated in rallies and demonstrations advocating for freedom in Iran. A friend close to Gholami revealed that he is not the only high-profile figure in this movement to have received threats recently. This has raised concerns about whether the shooting could be linked to his activism, potentially classifying it as a hate crime.
Police have remained tight-lipped about the investigation, citing the sensitive nature of the case amidst global tensions. Just one day prior to the shooting, York Regional Police had announced increased patrols across the region, including near faith-based institutions and public gathering places, in response to escalating conflicts in the Middle East.
Community and Government Response
The timing of the shooting, closely following the death of Ayatollah Khamenei, has prompted calls for involvement from federal authorities and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS). Community leaders and activists are urging a thorough probe to determine if this was an isolated act of violence or part of a broader pattern of intimidation.
As the investigation continues, residents of Richmond Hill and the broader Toronto area are advised to remain vigilant. Police are maintaining a heightened presence to ensure public safety, while investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
