A Jewish girls’ elementary school in Toronto was shot at for a second time in five months, this time on the solemn Jewish high holiday of Yom Kippur.
According to police, a suspect or suspects in a motor vehicle discharged a firearm at Bais Chaya Mushka Elementary at Dufferin Street and Finch Avenue West at around 4 a.m., Toronto Police Services said on X.
Police said no injuries were reported, though evidence of gunfire was located.
“We understand the fear and pain this causes especially on Yom Kippur,” TPS said in a separate post on X. “To Toronto’s Jewish community: We stand with you. Your safety is our priority. We are committed to finding those responsible.”
A representative of TPS told True North that police are still investigating the first time the all-Jewish girl’s elementary school was shot at in May.
A video of the suspects wanted in the first shooting was shared after the attack.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact police.
Independent Spadina—Fort York MP Kevin Vuong called the attack “domestic terrorism” on X.
“Horrifying that Jewish day schools continue to be targeted with gun violence, and especially on Yom Kippur, a solemn day for the community, Former Liberal Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino said. “Find the criminals. Arrest them. Put them in jail. And send a message that we will not tolerate hatred or violence.”
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said the incident was “another shameful and terrifyingly common attack” in Canada.
“It is part of a 251% increase in hate crimes during the 9 years of the NDP-Liberals,” Poilievre said on X. “I will ban the terrorists, secure our borders, lock up criminals and bring home safety for all.”
The Mayor of Toronto, Olivia Chow, chimed in as well. Days before, Chow was criticized for failing to attend a vigil for the victims of the October 7th terrorist attack.
“The shooting overnight at the Bais Chaya Mushka Elementary School is a horrific antisemitic act, shattering the peace of the High Holidays and Yom Kippur,” Chow said on X. “This is the second time the school has been targeted by this disgusting hate. I reiterate that the students of Bais Chaya Mushka have the right to learn, and the teachers have a right to teach, in safety and without fear of antisemitic attacks.”
Chow pledged that police will increase their presence in the area to protect the community and keep people safe and said she is in contact with the Chief of police to keep updated on the incident.
“Jewish families and the Jewish community should not be made to fear for their safety,” Chow said. “Antisemitic violence and threats are unacceptable.”
Anyone with information or footage of the incident are asked to contact 32 Division: 416-808-3200 or Crime Stoppers: 416-222-TIPS (8477).
