A 29-year-old man wielding a shotgun opened fire on a police officer outside a synagogue in Belleville, Ontario during Yom Kippur. The exchange of gunfire, involving nearly 30 shots, left both the shooter and the officer with serious injuries. The province’s police watchdog, the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), provided this information on Monday.
Kristy Denette, spokesperson for the SIU, stated that nearby homes and vehicles suffered bullet damage. However, it remained unclear if the synagogue itself was hit. The incident extended around half a block from the Sons of Jacob Synagogue.
According to preliminary evidence, the man drove a truck to the scene at approximately 7 p.m. on Sunday and began shooting at an officer stationed outside the synagogue. The officer returned fire, and a second officer also discharged their weapon upon arrival.
The suspect, identified as Sean Ward from Quinte West, faced life-threatening injuries. The injured officer, Constable Jeff Smith, a 13-year veteran of the Belleville Police Service, was recovering in intensive care.
About 24 synagogue attendees were present during the event. Douglas Lobel, one attendee, recounted the terrifying moments, describing them as lasting “two or three minutes” but feeling much longer. Lobel praised the officer’s actions, noting how they protected those inside. Fortunately, no one within the synagogue was harmed.
Authorities have not yet determined whether the attack targeted the Sons of Jacob Synagogue specifically or the Jewish community in general. The SIU is investigating the officers’ actions, while Belleville police are conducting a separate investigation into the shooter’s motives.
Belleville police Deputy Chief Sheri Meeks confirmed the officer’s challenging path to recovery. Meeks acknowledged the significant impact on the Jewish community, especially given the incident’s timing during Yom Kippur. She emphasized that antisemitism, hate, and violence should not find any place in their community.
In response to the attack, the synagogue canceled remaining Yom Kippur services. Police increased patrols at religious sites but assured the public there was no further threat to safety.
Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis commented on the shooting, pointing out the suspicious circumstances but urging caution before labeling it a hate crime. He emphasized the community’s unity and intolerance for such acts.
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the attack and underscored the Jewish community’s right to worship safely. He pledged government support to ensure the responsible party faces justice. Carney previously highlighted Canada’s challenges in protecting the Jewish community amid rising antisemitism, referencing past violent incidents against Jewish institutions.