Toronto Synagogues Targeted in Overnight Shootings, Sparking Investigation
Toronto, ON – Two synagogues in the Greater Toronto Area were struck by gunfire overnight, prompting investigations by both Toronto and York Regional Police. The incidents, occurring just days after a similar shooting at another North York synagogue, have raised concerns about rising antisemitism and security within the Jewish community.
The first shooting was reported around 10:50 p.m. Monday at Temple Emanu-El in North York, near Bayview Avenue and Highway 401. Police found evidence of gunfire and damage to the building. No injuries were reported.
Shortly after midnight, Toronto police responded to a second report of shots fired near Bathurst Street and Glencairn Avenue. Officers discovered bullet holes in the front door of a synagogue at that location, again with no reported injuries.
York Regional Police responded to a third incident at around 11:49 p.m. Friday, investigating reports of shots fired near Clark Avenue and York Hill Boulevard in Thornhill. Evidence of gunfire directed at a building on Clark Avenue was found, and no injuries were reported.
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the shootings as “an assault on the rights of Jewish Canadians to live and pray in safety” and “fundamental violations of the Canadian way of life.” He stated that federal agencies, including the RCMP, will support local law enforcement in identifying those responsible and pursuing justice.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow described the shooting at Temple Emanu-El as “an unacceptable act of antisemitism and intimidation.” She affirmed that Toronto Police are investigating and will increase their presence in the area to ensure the safety of the community and congregants.
Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca expressed disgust and anger upon learning that the Beth Avraham Yosef of Toronto synagogue in his city had been targeted. He noted that the synagogue had been celebrating Purim earlier in the week and announced increased police presence around synagogues in Vaughan.
York Regional Police will set up a mobile command post at Promenade Mall on Saturday, where officers will be available to answer questions and address public concerns. Toronto police are also increasing their presence at places of worship.
Authorities are urging anyone with information, video, or dash camera footage related to the shootings to contact the police.
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs and UJA Federation of Greater Toronto issued a joint statement calling for urgent action to address the escalating security demands faced by communities targeted by violence. They urged leaders to make it clear that violence stemming from events abroad is unacceptable in Canada and called for resources to be directed to communities at risk.
The shootings occurred shortly after Purim celebrations at Temple Emanu-El, according to reports. The UJA Federation of Greater Toronto stated the shooting took place “shortly after community members had left the synagogue, where they had gathered for a party to celebrate the holiday of Purim.”
Toronto city councillor Brad Bradford condemned the shooting, stating he was “horrified and outraged.” He also said Toronto Police will have increased presence outside the place of worship, adding that it’s “long past time for real action to build a city where that isn’t required.”
