Man accused of making threats to Muslim community in Newmarket, including blowing up mosque

York Regional Police logo is seen at headquarters in Aurora, Ont., Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston

A 54-year-old man has been charged after he allegedly threatened to blow up a Newmarket mosque and kill a Muslim in his neighbourhood.

York Regional Police said the man made the alleged threats towards the Muslim community on Sept. 1 and officers were notified about the incident two days later.

The man, identified as Donald Cameron of Newmarket, was arrested on Thursday, police said. He has been charged with two counts of uttering threats. The charges have not been tested in court.

Police said the investigation into the suspected hate-motivated incident is ongoing.

“Hate has no place in York Region,” police said, noting that they take these matters seriously.

“All reports of hate crime or hate/bias incidents will be investigated thoroughly.”

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 6552 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).