People Thought It Was An Explosion But It Was Part Of Rapper Drake’s Shoot

An explosion that shook a Toronto neighbourhood late Thursday night and sent residents rushing out of their homes was later confirmed to be part of a film shoot linked to rapper Drake. The New York Times reported that the blast took place near Downsview Park, where flames and a large plume of smoke rose into the sky, prompting alarm among people living nearby. Several residents described hearing loud boom sounds and feeling the impact inside their homes. “You could feel it in your chest,” said Beth McKellar, who lives in the area and reported hearing multiple explosions. Others said the force of the blast shook their homes. “The whole house shook. Our bed shook. Everything shook,” said Rosanna Iaboni, a longtime resident who initially feared

something serious had happened. Toronto police later clarified that the explosion was a “controlled incident” carried out as part of a movie shoot. Officials confirmed that a special-effects filming permit had been issued for a production associated with Drake at the location. The incident triggered concern partly because of the area’s history. In 2008, a propane plant explosion nearby killed one worker and forced thousands of residents to evacuate. For some, the latest blast brought back memories of that event. Local authorities said residents had been given advance notice that filming in the area could involve loud noises and flashes. However, some residents said the warning did not reflect the scale of the explosion. “They’re describing fireworks and we get an explosion,” Iaboni said, adding that many people in the neighbourhood may not have seen the notice. The organisation managing Downsview Park later apologised, saying it understood the disturbance caused by the blast and the concern it created among residents. Shortly after the incident, Drake shared images of the explosion on social media, adding to speculation that the blast was linked to a new project. Reports suggest the shoot may be connected to a project titled “Project Bot,” although details have not been officially confirmed. City officials said productions involving pyrotechnics are required to coordinate with fire and police services and provide prior notice to residents. The investigation into the incident has not indicated any safety violations.