A police officer and a man were wounded in a gunfire exchange near a synagogue on Yom Kippur, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemning the incident and calling for full accountability. The attack occurred at the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, on Sunday, September 20, as Jewish community members gathered for Yom Kippur.
The incident unfolded around 7:10 p.m. near the synagogue, where a police officer encountered an individual and both were injured, according to Belleville police. The man was hospitalized in life-threatening condition, while the officer also required medical care. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU), Ontario’s civilian police watchdog, confirmed it is investigating the exchange of gunfire, though no motive has been disclosed.
Premier Ford Condemns Attack, Calls for Justice
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed outrage over the shooting, stating, I’m disgusted by the shooting that took place outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville earlier this evening as Jewish community members gathered to mark Yom Kippur.
Ford emphasized that Jewish people have every right to gather and worship safely and without fear
and demanded that those responsible be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The premier also praised the first responders, saying, We owe an immense debt of gratitude to this brave officer and to all the first responders who acted so quickly to keep the community safe.
Police Increase Security Amid Concerns
In response to the attack, Toronto Police announced it would boost patrols at synagogues and places of worship, stating, While there is no known threat or connection to Toronto at this time, we are increasing visibility and patrols at synagogues and other places of worship out of an abundance of caution.
This follows a broader pattern of heightened security for Jewish communities in the region.
York Regional Police also confirmed there was no known threat in the region,
but residents were advised to expect increased police presence at religious sites.
Context of Rising Antisemitism in Canada
The shooting occurred amid growing concerns about antisemitism in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government previously pledged millions in funding for security upgrades at faith-based institutions following a series of attacks, including firebombings of synagogues and shootings at Jewish schools.
Recent months have seen similar incidents in the Toronto area, including gunfire targeting synagogues in Vaughan and Toronto in March. No one was injured, and police later arrested three suspects in connection with those shootings. The current attack has reignited debates about security measures and the need for greater police presence at religious sites.
Investigation Underway, Details Limited
Belleville police have not released details about the motive or whether the synagogue was targeted. The SIU, which investigates serious police-related incidents, has sent investigators to the scene.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues. The incident has drawn attention to ongoing challenges in protecting religious gatherings in Canada, particularly during high-profile events like Yom Kippur.