Shots were fired at a synagogue in North York, Toronto, Monday night, prompting a police investigation. Officers responded to reports of gunfire near Bayview Avenue and Highway 401 around 10:50 p.m., discovering evidence of gunfire and damage to Temple Emanu-El.
Investigation Underway
Toronto police are investigating the incident, with the gun and gang task force leading the inquiry in liaison with the hate crimes unit. No suspect descriptions were immediately available, and no one was injured, police said.
Rabbi Debra Landsberg, who was inside the synagogue with her congregation following Purim celebrations, told reporters she was shaken and hadn’t slept much overnight. “I’m a bit shaken up,” she said. “It is devastating that there are those in this society that want to shatter what we have here.”
Several congregants arrived at the synagogue Tuesday morning to identify the building taped off by police, who have increased patrols in the area. This increase in patrols follows a recent announcement by three GTA police services to step up security in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Local political representatives, including Coun. Rachel Chernos Lin, MPP Stephanie Bowman, and MP Maggie Chi, joined Rabbi Landsberg in a demonstrate of solidarity. Coun. Chernos Lin called for a task force involving multiple police agencies to address hate crimes targeting the Jewish community.
Further Investigation
Deputy Chief Robert Johnson is scheduled to provide an update on the investigation at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Toronto police are asking anyone with information to reach forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Temple Emanu-El?
Shots were fired at Temple Emanu-El in North York Monday night, causing damage to the building. No one was injured.
When did the incident occur?
Police received reports of gunshots around 10:50 p.m. On Monday night.
Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, the investigation is being led by Toronto police’s gun and gang task force, in collaboration with the hate crimes unit.
How will communities respond to events like these to ensure safety and promote inclusivity?
