Good morning, Etobicoke! I’m Bri, the voice behind Etobicoke Scoop. As always, I’ve rounded up the latest local news, events, and stories to keep you in the loop.

In this week’s newsletter:

🚗 Hot Wheels Alert: SUVs top thieves' wish lists
🔥 Woodshop Inferno: Blaze leaves locals puzzled
💍 Cemetery Heist: Thieves nab jewelry from graves

Plus: Holiday markets, concerts, and a Santa parade 🎅

THE DIGEST

🚗🛑 Top Picks for Car Thieves 🛑🚗 
Move over, Honda Civic—SUVs and trucks are the new targets for car thieves in Canada. The 2021 Toyota RAV4 SUV takes the top spot nationally, with sophisticated criminal networks eyeing vehicles with keyless security systems. Although car thefts are down from 2024, Toronto remains a hotspot for the crime, with young offenders in Etobicoke and the wider GTA doing the dirty work for international crime groups. Keep an eye on your wheels, folks—especially if they're high-end SUVs or trucks.

🔥 Woodworking Shop Fire Lights Up Early Morning 🚒 
A two-alarm fire blazed through a woodworking shop in Etobicoke, with flames breaking through the roof as emergency crews rushed to the scene. Despite the dramatic visuals, the good news is no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, leaving locals curious about what sparked the fiery spectacle on Primrose Avenue. Stay tuned for updates as authorities investigate the incident.

💍🪦 Grave Robbers Busted 💍🪦 
Over 300 thefts from GTA cemeteries and mausoleums have been uncovered, with stolen items including jewelry and valuables from cremation niches. The thieves were caught at a Niagara Falls motel after targeting locations like Glendale Funeral Home and Cemetery in Etobicoke. Arrested individuals face charges including theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, and indignity to a dead body. With recovered items being cataloged for return, police suspect more victims are yet to be identified.

Upcoming Events

• November 20 – Speaker's Night: The Boyd Gang: Toronto's Notorious Bank Robbers

  Montgomery's Inn | 4709 Dundas St W, Etobicoke

  Join us for a fascinating evening as Richard Jordan, Chief Historian of the Etobicoke Historical Society, delves into the thrilling escapades of the Boyd Gang. Discover the story of Edwin Alonzo Boyd and his notorious crew who became infamous for their daring bank heists and dramatic jail escapes in the 1950s. With rich insights and captivating storytelling, Richard brings history to life, offering a glimpse into one of Toronto's most riveting crime sagas.

  🕢 7:30 p.m. (Refreshments from 7:00 p.m.) | Admission is free, donations to the Etobicoke Historical Society are welcome.

• November 21 – Special Collaborative Event with Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra: Our Story

  Martingrove Collegiate Institute | 50 Winterton Drive, Etobicoke

  Join us for a captivating evening as we celebrate Etobicoke's rich history through music! This unique concert brings together the Etobicoke Philharmonic Orchestra, the Etobicoke Historical Society, the Local Vocals pop-up choir, and Etobian composers. Explore artefacts from the EHS archives, including a cannon ball from the War of 1812, as you enjoy Tchaikovsky's thrilling 1812 Overture.🕗 8:00 p.m. | 🎟️ Tickets available
  

• November 22 – Handmade Art and Fine Craft Sale
  Neilson Park Creative Centre | 56 Neilson Dr., Etobicoke
  Browse a curated collection of handmade art, pottery, jewelry, and fine craft by dozens of local artisans. A perfect opportunity to shop early for unique holiday gifts while supporting Etobicoke’s vibrant creative community.
  🕙 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Free admission and parking
  

• November 22 – Etobicoke Magical Mistletoe Market

  St. James United Church | 400 Burnhamthorpe Rd., Etobicoke

  Get ready for a heartwarming experience at our Magical Mistletoe Market! This enchanting event brings together talented handcrafters offering unique gifts and festive decorations. Perfect for family outings or a romantic stroll, you’ll enjoy the vibrant holiday atmosphere and discover treasures that make perfect gifts. 🎁✨🕒 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | 🎟️ Free admission for all!
  

• November 29 – Indoor Christmas Market
  Franklin Horner Community Centre | 432 Horner Ave., Etobicoke
  Delicious baked goods, barbecue, and amazing vendors kickstart the holiday season! Enjoy a festive indoor market with treats and treasures for everyone.
  🕙 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Free entry

• November 29 – New Toronto Holiday Market
  2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Etobicoke
  Celebrate the season at this festive market hosted by Humber Polytechnic and Lakeshore Grounds. Discover holiday-themed vendors, local makers, and cheerful winter vibes by the lake. 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Free admission
  

• December 6 – Etobicoke-Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade

  Lake Shore Boulevard West | First St. to Thirty Fifth St., Etobicoke

  Kick off the holiday season with festive cheer at the 35th annual Etobicoke-Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade! 🎅 With over 50 groups, including jolly pups, energetic sports teams, and talented bands and performers, it's a delightful event for the whole family. 🕙 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Free admission, come early for the best spots!

Weather

• Thu, Nov 20: High 6°C, Low 2°C 🌥️

• Fri, Nov 21: High 9°C, Low 3°C 🌥️

• Sat, Nov 22: High 6°C, Low 2°C 🌥️

• Sun, Nov 23: High 9°C, Low 2°C 🌥️

• Mon, Nov 24: High 6°C, Low 2°C 🌥️

• Tue, Nov 25: High 7°C, Low 5°C 🌧️

• Wed, Nov 26: High 12°C, Low 7°C 🌥️

Fun & Games

🤔 Riddle me this

I start with an "e" and end with an "e," but I usually contain only one letter.

What am I?

Answer: An envelope

Like being in the know? Share the love! Forward this newsletter to friends and neighbors who’d enjoy staying up-to-date on all things Etobicoke. 📬

Thanks for reading! See you next week for more of what’s happening in Etobicoke.

-Bri