Overview
- A Belleville police officer and a 29‑year‑old man exchanged gunfire near the Sons of Jacob Synagogue as worshippers gathered, with authorities saying the encounter occurred around 7:10 p.m. on Sunday.
- The suspect was hospitalized in life‑threatening condition and the officer was listed in critical but stable condition after what the SIU estimated was roughly 20 to 30 shots fired that struck the synagogue and nearby homes and vehicles.
- Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit has opened a criminal probe of the police‑involved shooting and has assigned investigators and forensic staff to collect body‑cam, vehicle and surveillance footage while Belleville police run a parallel criminal investigation.
- No congregants were injured but Yom Kippur services were canceled, local leaders condemned the attack, and police increased patrols and visible security at synagogues and other places of worship across the region.
- The case remains under active investigation with authorities asking the public to provide photos, video or tips, and officials are examining whether the location and timing point to a hate motive while stressing there is no ongoing risk to the public.