In Belleville, Ontario, a shootout outside a synagogue during Yom Kippur has left two individuals seriously injured, including a local police officer. The province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) reports that a 29-year-old man armed with a shotgun engaged with officers in a gunfight, believed to involve as many as 30 shots.
The injured officer, identified as Const. Jeff Smith of the Belleville Police Service, is recovering in intensive care. The alleged shooter, Sean Ward from Quinte West, sustained life-threatening injuries.
According to Kristy Denette, spokesperson for the SIU, the gunfire incident began when the suspect arrived in a truck and opened fire outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue. The officer returned fire, later joined by a second officer. The violence led to bullet damage on nearby vehicles and homes. The synagogue did not report forensic confirmation of any hits, although the scene covered approximately half a block.
About 24 individuals were inside the synagogue when the shooting began. A witness, Douglas Lobel, described the event as lasting two to three minutes, remarking on the heroic actions of the officers present. None of the congregants were harmed.
The SIU is investigating the police officers’ response while Belleville police are pursuing a separate criminal investigation to determine the suspect’s motives. Deputy Police Chief Sheri Meeks emphasized the ordeal’s impact on the Jewish community, stating antisemitism and violence are intolerable. Following the incident, the synagogue canceled its remaining Yom Kippur services, and police presence around places of worship has been increased.
Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis commented on the shooting’s context, suggesting its occurrence during the most sacred day of Yom Kippur pointed to a potential hate crime, though this has not been officially determined. He affirmed the community’s commitment to safety and tolerance.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the violence and reaffirmed the federal government’s support for law enforcement efforts in bringing the perpetrator to justice. Carney highlighted ongoing concerns over rising antisemitism, citing previous incidents such as attacks on Jewish businesses and synagogues.