Three people were shot at with a pellet gun outside a synagogue in North York on Thursday night, Toronto police say. Officers are investigating whether the incident could be linked to a similar attack in the area.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. outside a synagogue on Sheppard Avenue West, near Bathurst Street. Police say three individuals were targeted by someone wielding a replica firearm that fired pellets. No serious injuries were reported, but the victims were treated at the scene for minor wounds.
Police Investigation
Authorities are treating the incident as a potential hate crime. Investigators are looking into whether it is connected to another pellet gun attack on a Jewish institution in the same neighborhood earlier this week. Police have increased patrols in the area and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“We are taking this very seriously,” said Constable Laura Brabant, spokesperson for the Toronto Police Service. “We want to ensure the safety of all community members, and we are working diligently to identify the suspect.”
The suspect is described as a male in his late teens or early 20s, wearing dark clothing and a mask. He fled the scene on foot after the attack.
Community Reaction
Leaders of the Jewish community have expressed alarm over the incident. “This is a disturbing act of hate that targets our community,” said Rabbi Mendel Bernstein of the synagogue. “We are grateful that no one was seriously hurt, but we are deeply concerned about the rise in antisemitic incidents.”
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the attack, stating that the city will not tolerate violence or intimidation against any religious group. “We stand with the Jewish community and will do everything in our power to bring the perpetrator to justice,” she said.
Police are asking anyone with surveillance footage or information to contact them at 416-808-3200 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
