Barrie Police Services says residents can expect to see more officers on location at the city’s various places of worship going forward. The decision comes after a shooting near a synagogue in Belleville, Ont. on Sunday night. The incident sent two people to the hospital, including a Belleville police officer. The shooting happened as the Jewish community marked the religious holiday of Yom Kippur. “Our thoughts are with the police officer injured in the shooting, along with their loved ones and colleagues,” Barrie Police Service said in a statement to CTV News. “We understand that incidents like this can cause concern within our community. At this time, we have no information to suggest there is a specific or immediate threat to Barrie,” police said. “But residents should expect an increase in patrols around places of worship within the city.” The police service went on to say it maintains close contact with community members and faith leaders and will continue to monitor the situation. South Simcoe Police In a statement posted to social media, South Simcoe Police Service said it was “saddened by the violence and its impact following the incident at the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville.” “Our thoughts are with our police family at the Belleville Police Service, the injured officer and their family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the Jewish community in Belleville and Jewish communities across Canada,” the police service said. The police service called the shooting a tragedy, adding it was “felt deeply” as it happened when Jewish communities around the world gather to observe Yom Kippur. “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes, communities, and places of worship, especially during times of prayer, reflection, and gathering,” police said. South Simcoe Police says it stands with members of the Jewish community and that residents can expect an increased officer presence at key places of worship and community centres.
