Ex-Canadian Soldier Opens Fire at Ontario Synagogue on Yom Kippur, Wounds Officer
Authorities are investigating the possible antisemitic motive behind the attack where an ex-soldier shot a police officer outside a synagogue on Yom Kippur.
An ex-Canadian soldier opened fire outside a synagogue during Yom Kippur services in Belleville, Ontario, wounding a police officer before being killed by responding officers. The incident, which occurred around 7 p.m. Sunday, is being investigated as a possible antisemitic attack.
Sean Ward, 29, arrived in his truck and discharged a shotgun at two officers providing security outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue, according to the CBC. Constable Jeff Smith was struck by gunfire and remained in critical but stable condition as of Tuesday. The two officers returned fire, hitting Ward, who died of his injuries Monday night.
Investigators are examining the motive for the shooting, noting that the timing on Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, suggests a potential antisemitic motivation. While it is unclear if the synagogue itself was the specific target, the attack has raised concerns.
Approximately two dozen congregants were inside the synagogue during services and were unharmed. However, bullets from the exchange damaged surrounding homes, vehicles, and the synagogue's windows. Belleville Deputy Police Chief Sheri Meeks described the scene as having "dozens of bullet holes in the street behind me and some homes have been hit and there are some vehicles with shot out windows."
Witnesses inside the synagogue reported hearing the gunfire and immediately taking cover. Norm Weddum, the leader of Sons of Jacob, stated that congregants ran back into the auditorium and lay on the floor until the shooting stopped. The synagogue typically requests extra security during Jewish High Holidays due to threat concerns.
Ward, the alleged assailant, served as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces from 2017 until his departure in 2022. Officials are continuing their investigation into the incident.
In response to the attack, Meeks emphasized that "Antisemitism, hate and violence have no place in our community," and assured the public that every person deserves to feel safe in places of worship and community gatherings. A heightened police presence has been implemented across Belleville. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis have all condemned the attack.