Canada recognizes shooting near synagogue as anti-Jewish attack — Jerusalem Post

Police in the city of Belleville in the Canadian province of Ontario have classified the shooting near the Sons of Jacob synagogue as a deliberate anti-Jewish hate crime. The attack occurred on Sunday evening as community members were preparing to begin Yom Kippur services.

As The Jerusalem Post reports, Belleville Police Chief Murray Rodd said that the attack targeted members of the Jewish community during one of the most important religious holidays. Police officers were on duty near the synagogue and exchanged fire with the attacker, Sean Ward, preventing him from entering the building.

Flammable materials and ammunition

According to Rodd, Ward's truck contained flammable materials, including gasoline. He also had a significant quantity of ammunition and other weapons. The police chief said that the actions of constables Jeff Smith and Michael McCardy prevented the attacker from using these materials and carrying out a larger-scale attack.

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Police also established that Ward had surveyed the synagogue grounds before the shooting. According to CBC, law enforcement received video footage of the attack. Police said that in the recording, Ward can be heard shouting threats related to Jews.

Condition of the injured police officer

Constable Jeff Smith, who was on duty near the synagogue, is in critical condition, but his condition is improving, Rodd said. Sean Ward later died from injuries sustained during the exchange of fire with police.

Rodd also noted that Ward had previously served in the Canadian Armed Forces. In the police chief's view, law enforcement agencies in the country need to act proactively to protect Jewish communities.