Canada Police Investigate Synagogue Shooting on Yom Kippur

Police in Belleville, Canada, are investigating a shooting incident outside the "Bnai Jacob" synagogue during Yom Kippur services. Dozens of bullets were fired towards the synagogue, and the suspect also shot at an officer stationed outside. The Israeli ambassador to Canada, Ido Moed, called the event a "terror attack" and urged increased protection for the Jewish community. However, local police have not officially determined an antisemitic motive, with the mayor stating it is "too early to determine if this is a hate crime," though he acknowledged the location and timing suggest it.

The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Sean Ward from nearby Quinte West, is hospitalized in serious condition. The injured officer, Jeff Smith, a 13-year veteran, is in the intensive care unit and expected to recover. Approximately 24 worshippers were inside the synagogue at the time and were unharmed. Police have increased their presence in the city, including around places of worship.

The Ontario Special Investigations Unit (SIU), which probes police conduct, is focusing on the officer's actions. The Belleville Police Department is investigating the motive. According to initial reports, the suspect arrived in a pickup truck around 7 p.m. armed with a shotgun and fired first at the officer. The officer returned fire, and a second officer also discharged their weapon. The suspect and the first officer were injured. The scene, which spanned half a block, saw up to 30 bullets fired, damaging police vehicles, other cars, and nearby homes. Investigators are collecting evidence and reviewing security footage.