Ontario Synagogue Shooting During Yom Kippur Leaves Two Injured

A 29-year-old man with a shotgun opened fire on a police officer outside an Ontario synagogue, leading to a shootout with up to 30 shots fired. The incident, which occurred during Yom Kippur, left the gunman with life-threatening injuries. The officer, a veteran of the Belleville Police Service, was seriously wounded but is recovering in intensive care.

Kristy Denette from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) reported that nearby vehicles and homes were damaged by bullets. There was yet no confirmation if the synagogue itself was hit. The scene extended approximately half a block from the Sons of Jacob Synagogue.

Preliminary findings revealed the shooter arrived around 7 p.m. in a truck and fired at an officer stationed outside the synagogue in Belleville, 110 miles east of Toronto. The officer retaliated before receiving support from a second officer, who also fired.

The alleged shooter, identified as Sean Ward from Quinte West, was involved in the confrontation which lasted two to three minutes. Douglas Lobel, a witness inside the synagogue, described the gunfire as feeling like an eternity. Fortunately, no one inside was injured, and Lobel credited the officer with saving lives.

Authorities have not yet determined a motive or if the Jewish community was targeted. The SIU is investigating the officers’ actions, while a separate criminal inquiry is reviewing the shooter’s intentions. Deputy Chief Sheri Meeks noted the profound impact on Belleville’s Jewish community due to the shooting near the synagogue on Yom Kippur.

In response, the synagogue canceled remaining Yom Kippur services. Police have stepped up patrols around places of worship, affirming there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis expressed concern about the timing and location of the shooting, suggesting possible motives tied to antisemitism.

Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the event, emphasizing that Jewish people should worship safely and live openly. The incident follows previous warnings from Carney about rising antisemitism in Canada, citing attacks on Jewish sites and businesses.