Toronto, ON – Two synagogues in the Greater Toronto Area were targeted in overnight shootings, prompting increased police presence and condemnation from Prime Minister Mark Carney. The incidents, occurring just days after a similar attack on another North York synagogue, have raised concerns about rising antisemitism and security within the Jewish community.
The first shooting was reported shortly after midnight at the Shaarei Shomayim synagogue in North York, near Bathurst Street and Glencairn Avenue. Toronto police discovered bullet holes in the front door of the building, but thankfully, no injuries were reported. Shortly before midnight, York Regional Police responded to reports of shots fired at the Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto synagogue in Thornhill, near Clark Avenue and York Hill Boulevard. Officers found evidence of gunfire directed at the building and confirmed two individuals were inside at the time, also without injury.
Prime Minister Mark Carney swiftly condemned the attacks, calling them “criminal antisemitic assaults” and stating they were “an assault on the rights of Jewish Canadians to live and pray in safety. They are also fundamental violations of the Canadian way of life.” He affirmed that federal agencies, including the RCMP, would provide support to local law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting those responsible.
Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, expressing his disgust and anger over the shooting at the Beth Avraham Yosef of Toronto synagogue in his community. “Thankfully, no one was injured, but I know this hateful and anti-Semitic act will affect my Jewish residents deeply,” he said in a statement, adding that increased police presence would be deployed around synagogues in the area.
Details of the Overnight Attacks
York Regional Police (YRP) stated they responded to the Thornhill synagogue at approximately 11:49 p.m. On Friday. A mobile command post has been established at Promenade Mall, where officers will be available to answer questions and address public concerns. Toronto police responded to the North York location around 12:08 a.m. After receiving reports of gunshots.
This latest incident follows a shooting at the Temple Emanu-El synagogue in North York earlier this week, on Monday, shortly after a Purim celebration. While no one was injured in that attack, the synagogue’s doors were damaged by bullet holes and broken glass. Toronto city councillor Brad Bradford condemned the shooting, stating on social media, “I am horrified and outraged,” and noting the recent Purim celebration. Bradford also said Toronto Police will have increased presence outside the place of worship, adding, “but it’s long past time for real action to build a city where that isn’t required. Where hateful acts like this are prevented, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Community Response and Calls for Action
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and UJA Federation of Greater Toronto issued a joint statement urging increased protection for Jewish communities. “Our leaders must be absolutely clear that it is outrageous for Canadian communities to face violence because of events happening abroad. No more “thoughts and prayers,” we need to notice urgent action,” the statement read. The organizations called for immediate action from all levels of government to address the escalating security demands faced by communities targeted by violence, and for resources to be distributed directly to those most at risk.
Police are urging anyone with information, video, or dash camera footage related to the shootings to come forward.
Authorities are currently investigating whether the three shootings – including the incident at Temple Emanu-El – are connected. The timing of these attacks, coinciding with ongoing international conflicts, has heightened anxieties within the Jewish community.
As investigations continue, Toronto police and York Police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is urged to contact the relevant authorities. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitism and the importance of vigilance and community support.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they become available. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and engage in respectful discussion in the comments below.
