Belleville, Ont., police to give update on motive behind shooting near synagogue

Belleville police are set to release an update on Thursday regarding a shooting that occurred outside a synagogue, resulting in a critically injured police officer and the death of the suspect. Chief Murray Rodd is scheduled to speak to the media around 2 p.m. On Sunday, during Yom Kippur services at the Sons of Jacob synagogue, a gunman with a shotgun targeted a police officer stationed outside.

Const. Jeff Smith sustained critical injuries in the ensuing gunfight, while the shooter, a former soldier, likewise suffered life-threatening wounds and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. The shooter, Sean Ward, 29, from Quinte West, Ontario, has been identified as the perpetrator. The Canadian Armed Forces have confirmed his military background.

Additional details are forthcoming. President of the Belleville synagogue suspects the incident was a hate crime. The suspect's connection to the military has raised concerns among officials.