Police Officer Shot Outside Ontario Synagogue on Yom Kippur
An investigation is underway after a police officer was shot outside a synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, during Yom Kippur services.
A police officer was shot outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, on Sunday evening while Jewish community members were gathered to observe Yom Kippur. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. near the intersection of Bleecker Avenue and Victoria Avenue.
Both the officer and an individual involved in the encounter sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Further details regarding their conditions have not yet been released.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the shooting, calling it "disgusting." He expressed his thoughts were with the Jewish community in Belleville and across Ontario, emphasizing their right to gather and worship safely. "I expect that all those responsible are arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law," Ford stated. He also extended his gratitude to the injured officer and all first responders for their swift actions.
Ontario's Special Investigations Unit (SIU), a civilian police watchdog agency, is investigating the incident.