Exchange of gunfire near Belleville synagogue injures 2 people, including officer

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) in Ontario is probing a shooting incident near the Sons of Jacob synagogue in Belleville that left two people injured on Sunday evening, including a police officer. The exchange of gunfire occurred around 7:10 p.m. at Bleecker and Victoria Avenues. Both victims were taken to a hospital; one man's condition was deemed life-threatening. Police are uncertain if the synagogue was the target of the attack and have stated there is no immediate threat to the public.

Photos circulated online showing bullet holes in the synagogue's stained glass windows, which belonged to worshipers attending services for Yom Kippur at the time of the attack. Former area MP Ryan Williams shared a photo that appeared to document the damage. The injured police officer has been hailed as a hero by witnesses.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed disgust at the shooting that transpired outside the synagogue while Jewish community members were observing the holy day. He emphasized that the Jewish community has the right to gather and worship safely in Ontario and vowed that those responsible would be held accountable "to the full extent of the law." Ford also acknowledged the bravery of the injured officer and thanked first responders for their swift actions.

Law enforcement agencies from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) also issued statements expressing concern over the incident. The Toronto police and York Regional Police Service communicated that they are aware of the shooting and will be implementing heightened visibility and patrols at synagogues and other places of worship as a precautionary measure.