Waterloo Regional Police and Guelph Police are taking action following Sunday night’s shooting at a synagogue in Belleville. “While there is no known threat or connection to Waterloo Region at this time, our officers will be increasing their presence at places of worship out of an abundance of caution as we continue working to ensure everyone feels safe and is safe,” Waterloo Regional Police wrote in a social media post. Guelph Police shared a similar statement on social media. “While there is no known connection to Guelph, we will be increasing our patrols around Jewish place of worship to support community safety,” their post said. “This presence is intended to help ensure that all community members can celebrate while feeling safe and supported.” Belleville incident The shooting happened outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue, where members had gathered for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. The Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) said a Belleville police officer was involved in an “exchange of gunfire” with a man carrying a rifle. Both men were taken to hospital. The SIU said the 29-year-old suspect had life-threatening injuries, while the officer was in stable condition with critical injuries. Very little is known about the circumstances leading up to the shooting. “We are deeply saddened by the shooting outside a synagogue in Belleville yesterday,” Waterloo Regional Police wrote on social media. “Our thoughts are with the injured Belleville Police Service officer, as well as their loved ones, colleagues and all those affected by this tragic event.” Anyone who sees suspicious activity outside a place of worship is urged to contact police or, in an emergency, call 9-1-1.
