York Regional Police are investigating what they are calling a hate-motivated incident in Vaughan, Ontario. The incident occurred at the Sephardic Kehila Centre, a synagogue serving the Sephardic Jewish community, which traces its heritage to Spain and Portugal.
Details of the incident
According to police, around 9:35 a.m. on Saturday, a male suspect attempted to force his way into the centre located on Bathurst Street. During the attempted break-in, the suspect assaulted a victim before fleeing the scene. Authorities have confirmed that the victim was not injured in the attack.
Police investigation
The York Regional Police Hate Crime Unit is leading the investigation. The suspect remains at large, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. In a social media post, police described the incident as a hate/bias-motivated crime.
Community response
Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca expressed his concern on social media, calling the assault deeply disturbing. He urged the public to assist police in identifying the suspect. This incident is part of a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents in the Toronto area, including recent gunfire at synagogues and vandalism targeting Jewish-owned businesses.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact the York Regional Police Hate Crime Unit or Crime Stoppers.
