An ex-Canadian soldier opened fire outside a synagogue during Yom Kippur services, injuring a police officer before being shot by law enforcement in what authorities are investigating as a possible antisemitic attack. Sean Ward, 29, arrived in a truck and fired at two officers stationed outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, around 7 p.m. on Sunday, according to the CBC.
Ward struck Constable Jeff Smith, who was providing security at the synagogue, while another officer was also present. The officers returned fire, hitting Ward, who later died from his injuries on Monday night. As of Tuesday, Smith remained in critical but stable condition.
It is unclear whether Ward intended to target the synagogue, located approximately 110 miles east of Toronto, or the police officers. However, investigators noted that the shooting's timing on Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, raises concerns about antisemitic motives.
No injuries were reported among the approximately two dozen congregants inside the synagogue, but bullets struck nearby homes, vehicles, and the synagogue's windows. Belleville Deputy Police Chief Sheri Meeks described the scene, stating, "There are dozens of bullet holes in the street behind me and some homes have been hit and there are some vehicles with shot out windows."
Worshipers quickly sought cover during the exchange of gunfire, which lasted about 25 shots in a matter of moments. Norm Weddum, the leader of Sons of Jacob, recounted the incident, saying, "I could say, ‘Oh, this is definitely … someone is shooting here.' So that’s when we ran back into the auditorium of the synagogue, closed the doors behind us so as to not leave a visible target and we hit the floor."
Weddum emphasized the importance of security during Jewish High Holidays, stating, "Thank God that person was there," referring to Smith. Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the shooting.
Kristy Denette, a spokesperson for Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit, provided details about the incident, noting that Ward discharged his firearm at a police officer, prompting a return of fire from law enforcement. Ward had joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 2017 and served as an infantry soldier until leaving in 2022 as a corporal.
Meeks stated that antisemitism has “no place” in Belleville and announced an increased police presence in the city. She emphasized, "Every person deserves to feel safe when attending a place of worship, gathering with loved ones, or participating in community life."
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis condemned the attack.