Police are investigating shootings at two synagogues in the Greater Toronto Area. The incidents occurred overnight, with reports of gunfire at locations in York Region and North York.
Synagogue Shootings Under Investigation
Investigators responded to reports of shots fired near Clark Avenue and York Hill Boulevard in York Region just before midnight on Friday night. Damage from gunfire was found on the front of the Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto synagogue. Simultaneously, Toronto police were called to the area of Glencairn Avenue and Bathurst Street following reports of gunshots.
No injuries have been reported in either incident. Police have noted that a dark sedan was observed in the vicinity of the York Region shooting. Bullet holes were visible on the front doors of Shaarei Shomayim in North York.
Vaughan mayor Steven Del Duca expressed his “disgust and anger” regarding the shooting at the Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto synagogue. In a social media post, he stated, “I know this hateful and anti-semitic act will affect my Jewish residents deeply,” and criticized what he described as inaction from various levels of government.
Police are currently investigating a possible connection between the two shootings. They have established a command post at Promenade Mall to address public concerns and gather information. Anyone with information, video, or dash cam footage from the relevant timeframes is asked to contact the police.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the shootings occur?
One shooting occurred near Clark Avenue and York Hill Boulevard in York Region, impacting the Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto synagogue. The other occurred in North York, at the intersection of Glencairn Avenue and Bathurst Street, affecting Shaarei Shomayim.
Were there any injuries reported?
No, police have reported no injuries in either shooting.
Is police investigating a connection between the two incidents?
Yes, police are investigating whether the shootings in York Region and North York are connected.
As investigations continue, it remains to be seen whether further details will emerge regarding the motives behind these incidents and whether additional security measures will be implemented at religious institutions across the region.
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