Police say Barrie’s northeast end shooting believed to be targeted, man suffers serious injuries

The day after a 22-year-old man was shot in the area of Johnson Street and Shanty Bay Road in Barrie, Ont., on May 20, 2026. (CTV News/Mike Lang)

Police say a 22-year-old man was shot in Barrie’s northeast end Tuesday night in what they believe was a “targeted shooting.”

It happened around 7:45 p.m. near Johnson Street and Shanty Bay Road.

Emergency crews responded after reports of gunfire and found the victim, who was taken to the local hospital before being airlifted to a Toronto trauma centre.

Officers say he is suffering from serious injuries but remains in stable condition.

Witnesses told police they saw two men flee toward Johnson Beach after the incident. Despite an extensive search using K-9s and the tactical unit, authorities say no suspects were found.

Barrie police will be in the area Wednesday canvassing and gathering evidence as the investigation unfolds.

Authorities say any incident involving a firearm is is very concerning and stress that this isn’t believed to be a random act. Anyone with information is asked to call the Major Crime Unit at 705-725-7025 ext. 2160.