An Indian restaurant in Scarborough was destroyed in a dramatic overnight fire that authorities are now treating as a suspected arson attack. The blaze broke out around 3 a.m. on Friday at Shaaz Indian Cuisine, a popular eatery located at 2300 Lawrence Avenue East near Kennedy Road. Fire crews arrived to find the restaurant fully engulfed, prompting a two-alarm response from Toronto Fire Services.
Witnesses say the attack appeared deliberate. According to multiple accounts, two to three masked individuals forcibly entered the premises, poured gasoline inside, and set the place on fire—filming the act on their phones before fleeing the scene in a waiting vehicle. Several staff members were working inside at the time but escaped without injury. “It was terrifying,” said one employee. “We’re just grateful everyone got out safely.”
Toronto police confirmed the case is being investigated as arson and are currently searching for at least three male suspects. They were last seen wearing dark clothing and face coverings. Detectives are reviewing nearby surveillance footage and asking the public for assistance.
The restaurant’s owners say they’re devastated but determined to rebuild. “We don’t know why we were targeted,” one said. “But we’re not giving up on this community.”
The motive behind the suspected arson remains unclear. Police urge anyone with information to contact investigators or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers.