Public Figures Send Condolences to Belleville Synagogue Shooting

Peterborough public figures have sent their condolences over the events of the Sons of Jacob Congregation shooting that occurred in Belleville on Sunday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The shooting resulted in a Belleville police officer and one suspect being transported to Kingston General Hospital at approximately 7:10 p.m., according to the Belleville Police Service. Congregants were observing Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, when the incident occurred.

The Belleville Police Service stated that they have notified the province’s Special Investigations Unit of the incident.

Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Chief contacted Murray Rodd, Belleville Police Chief and extended his condolences on the incident.

“I have had a conversation with the Chief in Belleville to offer our support and of course relay our best wishes to their injured officer,” he said. “I have also had conversations with the President of the Beth Israel Synagogue in our City to discuss the situation and local impacts. As a Service we are being vigilant and there will be heightened police presence at the synagogue here in Peterborough throughout the day.”

Mayor Jeff Leal has issued the following statement regarding the incident:

“On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I want to express my deep sadness and concern following the shooting at the Sons of Jacob Congregation in Belleville last night. 

My thoughts are with the Jewish community in Belleville, here in Peterborough, and across Canada.  

It is especially disturbing that this violence occurred at a synagogue as members of the Jewish community gathered to observe Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. 

Everyone deserves to gather, to worship, and to practice their faith in safety and without fear. Antisemitism, hate and violence have no place in our communities. 

We know that what happened in nearby Belleville will be deeply felt by Jewish members of our own Peterborough community. At this difficult time, I encourage everyone to show friendship, empathy and kindness to our Jewish friends, family members and neighbours. 

My thoughts are also with the Belleville Police Service officer who was injured in the shooting, as well as the officer’s family and loved ones. We are grateful to the police officers and first responders who acted to protect the community during this frightening incident. 

Peterborough stands with the Jewish community in Belleville and here at home.”

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