Speaking out against a rash of deadly gun violence in his city, Toronto Mayor David Miller says it is "just not acceptable."

"We do not expect to have shooting incidents of this kind ... in this city," Miller told reporters at a press conference Monday afternoon, promising to work with all levels of government on the issue.

"The city is going to work with the police to do everything in our power to combat these kinds of crimes. And we're going to work with the federal government to deal with issues of gun smuggling."

The mayor's comments came the same day three separate shootings in the city left at least two people dead and three others wounded. Three people were sent to hospital after two separate shootings, both of which occurred around 4 a.m. ET.

Paramedics reportedly told a local television station that two of the victims were pronounced dead on arrival.

The shootings occurred just blocks apart. Police did not say, however, whether the two incidents were connected.

As well, late Sunday night, a 27-year-old man was shot in what police believe was a drive-by shooting. He and a second person who was also wounded, are expected to survive.

At the press briefing Monday, Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair implored the city to help investigators in any way possible.

"We encourage the public to come forward and provide assistance to police in bringing those responsible for this violence to justice," Blair said, noting that the police tip line has been inundated with calls of late.

"I think that reflects the concern ... the citizens of Toronto have about the violence we have experienced."

Police in Canada's largest city have been dealing with some 20 shootings in recent weeks.

On Friday, a 27-year-old man was shot and killed at a townhouse complex in the northeast end. The victim was identified as Melbourne Whittick.

A pair of drive-by shootings last Wednesday left one man dead and five people wounded. Among the injured was a four-year-old boy.

Just days before those shootings, a 21-year-old man was shot dead while standing in a crowded city square, a 46-year-old man was shot multiple times in his apartment, and a 26-year-old man was gunned down while waiting near a bank.

According to Blair, the weapons being used in these crimes are coming from two sources. In addition to the United States, the police chief said owners of legal guns must do their part.

"We know that half of the guns used to commit crimes in Toronto come from the United States," he explained.

"But we also know a lot of guns ... are obtained in break and enters from legitimate gun owners.

"They have a responsibility to maintain the safety and security of their weapons."