TORONTO, Ontario — Ontario’s police watchdog has launched an investigation after a cyclist was injured during an arrest by Toronto police officers on Queens Quay, an incident that was captured on video and widely shared on social media.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) confirmed it has invoked its mandate following the May 31 incident near Queens Quay West and Little Norway Crescent.
The SIU is responsible for investigating incidents involving police that may result in serious injury, death, sexual assault, or the discharge of a firearm.
Video of Arrest Sparks Public Attention
The incident occurred during a Toronto police traffic enforcement campaign targeting stop-sign violations in the waterfront area.
Video footage circulating online shows officers taking a cyclist to the ground while bystanders react with concern. In the clip, the cyclist can be heard asking officers what he had done wrong, while one officer responds that he failed to stop at a stop sign.
The video quickly generated debate online, with some questioning whether the level of force used during the arrest was justified.
Conflicting Accounts Emerge
According to police sources, the cyclist allegedly rode through a stop sign, ignored officers’ attempts to stop him, and attempted to flee.
Sources familiar with body-worn camera footage say the cyclist struck a curb and fell onto the grass before an officer also fell during the pursuit. Police further allege that the cyclist attempted to flee on foot and resisted arrest while officers tried to place him in handcuffs.
However, the cyclist’s lawyer, David Shellnutt, disputes aspects of the police account and has raised concerns about the officers’ actions during the encounter.
Cyclist Diagnosed With Concussion
Shellnutt said his client has since been diagnosed with a concussion and referred to a head injury clinic.
According to the lawyer, the cyclist continues to experience concussion symptoms along with cuts, bruises, soft tissue injuries, and psychological trauma following the incident.
The lawyer also questioned whether adequate medical attention was provided at the scene.
Police sources maintain that paramedics happened to be nearby, stopped to assess the cyclist, and that he declined further treatment after reporting a scraped knee.
SIU Investigation Underway
Toronto police have stated that they cannot comment on specific allegations while the SIU investigation remains active.
The cyclist was issued three provincial offence notices following the incident, although police have not publicly detailed the specific offences.
Investigators with the SIU are expected to review witness statements, video evidence, and medical information as part of their investigation.
Video of what appears to be TPS officers tackling & arresting a cyclist during a stop sign trap on the MGT.
— The Biking Lawyer (Dave Shellnutt) (@TheBikingLawyer) June 1, 2026
Cyclist – "What did I do wrong?"
Cop – "You didn't stop."
If true, this is excessive use of force for a traffic stop. pic.twitter.com/TA5blkMg1q
