Officer Shot Outside Belleville Synagogue During Yom Kippur; SIU Launches Investigation

A police officer was shot outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, on Sunday evening while worshippers were gathered to observe Yom Kippur, officials said. The shooting occurred near the intersection of Bleecker Avenue and Victoria Avenue at about 7 p.m.

Both the officer and another person were taken to hospital with injuries. Ontario's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) — the civilian agency that probes incidents involving police where there is injury or death — said the officer was injured and the other individual was in life‑threatening condition. The SIU has opened an independent investigation.

Reactions and Response

Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the shooting. In a statement he said he was "disgusted" that the incident took place as the Jewish community gathered for Yom Kippur and called for anyone responsible to be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

"My thoughts are with the Jewish community in Belleville and across Ontario, who have every right to gather and worship safely and without fear," Ford said.

Toronto Police said it was increasing patrols and visibility at synagogues and other places of worship in the city "out of an abundance of caution," while noting there is no known threat or connection to Toronto at this time.

Bloomberg via Getty Images - PHOTO: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Attends First Ministers' Meeting

What We Know

- The incident took place near Bleecker Avenue and Victoria Avenue at about 7 p.m. on Sunday.

- A Belleville police officer and another individual were shot and transported to hospital; the other person is reported in life‑threatening condition.

- The SIU has launched an independent investigation; further details have not yet been released.

This is a developing story. Authorities continue to investigate and are expected to release additional information as it becomes available.