Police searching for suspect who allegedly tried to enter Thornhill synagogue, assaulted person nearby

Photos of a male suspect who allegedly attempted to enter a synagogue in Thornhill in April 25, then assaulted a person who was walking nearby after being denied entry. (YPR photos)

Police are asking for the public’s help to identify a male suspect who allegedly attempted to enter a synagogue in Thornhill earlier this month, then assaulted a person who was walking nearby after being denied entry.

The incident, which investigators have called hate-motivated, happened on April 25 at Sephardic Kehila Centre, at 7026 Bathurst St., just north of Steeles Avenue West. This orthodox synagogue serves members of the Jewish community who are of Sephardic heritage, descending from Spain and Portugal.

York Regional Police say they were called to that area just after 9:30 a.m. for reports of an assault.

Investigators allege an unknown male tried to enter the synagogue and when denied, attempted to force his way inside. Police say he “threw a stack of papers at security personnel, who prevented him from entering.”

The suspect then reportedly blocked the path of a person who was walking on the sidewalk near the place of worship and assaulted them as they tried walking around the suspect.

A victim came forward to police shortly after the attack. Police said the victim sustained facial injuries but did not say what severity they are.

The suspect is described as male with a dark complexion, between the ages of 25 and 35, and standing at approximately five-foot-eight. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, a beige jacket with a hood, a beige scarf, and white running shoes.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with further information is asked to contact the Hate Crime Prevention Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6552 or [e-mail], or Crime Stoppers anonymously.