Former Canadian soldier killed after shooting at Belleville synagogue during Yom Kippur
A 29-year-old ex-soldier opened fire on police outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, on Yom Kippur, injuring an officer before being shot dead; authorities are investigating a possible antisemitic motive.
A former Canadian infantry soldier, 29-year-old Sean Ward, drove his truck to the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, and fired a shotgun at two police officers stationed outside the building during Yom Kippur services on Sunday evening. Constable Jeff Smith was hit and remained in critical but stable condition, while Ward was fatally wounded after officers returned fire.
No members of the roughly two-dozen congregants inside were injured, though bullets struck nearby homes, vehicles and the synagogue’s windows. Belleville Deputy Police Chief Sheri Meeks described the scene as having "dozens of bullet holes in the street" and damage to surrounding property.
Worship leader Norm Weddum said congregants took cover inside the sanctuary after hearing gunfire, closing doors and urging everyone to the floor. He noted that extra security is typically requested for high-holiday services due to threat concerns.
Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit spokesperson Kristy Denette said investigators are examining the motive, noting the timing of the attack on Yom Kippur suggests a possible antisemitic element. Deputy Chief Meeks announced a heightened police presence in the city and emphasized that hate and violence have no place in the community.
Justin Trudeau, Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis publicly condemned the incident.