An Ontario synagogue on Yom Kippur has injured two people, including a police officer.
According to NBC News, a gunfire exchange happened on Sunday, September 20, near a synagogue where Jewish community members were gathered to mark Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism.
As per Ontario’s Special Investigation Unit, the shooting happened near Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville. The police officer encountered the man around 7:10 pm.
The man was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, while the officer was also hospitalized.
Police have not shared details about the motive of the shooting or if the synagogue or Jewish community was targeted. However, the Special Investigations Unit, the civilian agency to investigate serious incidents with police, is investigating the incident.
Belleville police has refused to provide any information during the underway investigation.
Ontario premier disgusted by shooting exchange
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said the shooting took place outside the synagogue as people gathered for Yom Kippur.
He wrote on X, “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. My thoughts are with the Jewish community in Belleville and across Ontario, who have every right to gather and worship safely and without fear.”
“I expect that all those responsible are arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. My thoughts are also with the police officer who was shot, along with their family and loved ones. 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,” Ford added.
York Regional Police said there was no known threat in the region, but residents should expect increased patrols at places of worship.
