Belleville officer hurt in synagogue shooting released from hospital

A Belleville police officer, Const. Jeff Smith, has been released from the hospital following a shootout outside the Sons of Jacob synagogue on September 20. Smith, who was stationed outside the synagogue during Yom Kippur celebrations, was critically injured after being shot by Sean Ward, a 29-year-old man from Quinte West. Ward, who sustained injuries himself, later died in the hospital.

Smith suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his head and body, requiring several surgeries. Chief Murray Road stated that Smith was ambushed during his second attempt to return fire, as the first rounds had already hit him before he exited his vehicle. Police have evidence suggesting the shooting was motivated by hate, with the shooter appearing to threaten Smith with "You are going to die for the Jews" in a video recording.

No one inside the synagogue was injured during the attack, which involved about two dozen people at the time. Police have also found combustible materials in Ward's car. The Special Investigations Unit is conducting an investigation into the conduct of the officers involved, as is standard protocol when an officer's actions result in death, serious injury, or the discharge of a firearm.