The Ontario's police watchdog, the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), has launched an investigation into a shooting incident that took place in Belleville on Sunday evening, injuring two individuals, including a police officer. The shooting occurred around 7:10 p.m. near the Sons of Jacob synagogue, situated at the intersection of Bleecker and Victoria Avenues.
According to the SIU, the incident involved an exchange of gunfire between an unidentified man and a police officer. Both individuals involved in the shooting were subsequently transported to a hospital for medical treatment. Reports indicate that one of the men is in life-threatening condition.
Detectives are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, revealing that it remains unclear whether the synagogue was a specific target during the incident. Authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat related to this event.
Photos shared on social media by former local MP Ryan Williams depict the synagogue’s stained glass windows displaying over a dozen bullet holes. Williams commented on the incident, highlighting that the shooting transpired while worshippers were gathered inside for Yom Kippur, calling the situation “disgraceful” and expressing that no Jewish person in Belleville should feel threatened.
In response to the shooting, Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his disgust via a social media post on Sunday night. He condemned the act, noting it occurred while members of the Jewish community were marking Yom Kippur. Ford expressed his thoughts and solidarity with the Jewish community in Belleville and throughout Ontario, emphasizing their right to gather and worship in safety.
The Premier assured that those responsible for the shooting will be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Furthermore, he extended gratitude to the injured officer, recognizing his bravery in the face of danger, as well as to all first responders who acted swiftly to ensure community safety.
Multiple law enforcement agencies across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have also reacted to the incident. Both the Toronto Police and York Regional Police Service issued statements acknowledging the shooting, revealing plans to increase visibility and patrols at synagogues and other places of worship as a precautionary measure.
