Police confirm: Belleville synagogue shooting was targeted attack on Jews

The city's police chief in Belleville, Ontario, has labeled a recent shooting at a synagogue as an anti-Jewish hate crime. Chief Murray Rodd made the announcement during a Thursday press conference, stating that the attack occurred during Yom Kippur, one of the year's holiest observances. Police chief Rodd emphasized that the shooter, Sean Ward, had targeted the Jewish community deliberately, during a time of religious significance.

He also noted that Ward had combustible materials such as gasoline in his truck, indicating a potentially dangerous intent.

Chief Rodd described the situation as requiring heightened vigilance from Canadian law enforcement agencies, given the threat posed to Jewish communities. He further explained that the approach of the police force towards the Jewish community involved proactive measures, including the presence of on-duty staff to ensure safety. Rodd highlighted the collaboration between the force and the Jewish community to ensure the protection of worshippers, stating that such proactive steps were crucial during high-alert periods.

Constables Jeff Smith and Michael McCurdy had managed to prevent Ward from entering the synagogue with his explosive materials and a substantial amount of ammunition. Smith is currently in critical condition but showing signs of improvement, according to Rodd. Ward, who was previously a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, died from his injuries sustained during the gun battle with police. The attacker was heard shouting, "You are going to die for the Jews," before the attack, according to a video obtained by the CBC.

Rodd confirmed that Ward had conducted reconnaissance of the synagogue grounds prior to the incident. However, he noted that the presence of police officer was not sufficient to alter Ward's intent to commit the act. The suspect was ultimately shot multiple times by the police, sustaining various fractures and injuries, including shrapnel.