A North York synagogue was struck by gunfire late Monday, and Toronto’s police are actively investigating the incident.
Officers responded to Temple Emanu-El, located just south of Bayview Avenue near Highway 401, after reports of gunshots. No one was hurt, but investigators found damage to the building upon arrival.
There is currently no description of a suspect.
Toronto police stated via email to CTV News that the Hate Crime Unit is handling the investigation, and they anticipate a heightened police presence in the area as the inquiry continues.
“It is devastating,” said Rabbi Debra Landsberg when speaking with reporters at the scene. Members had gathered Monday night to observe the Jewish holiday Purim. Landsberg explained that the congregation had dispersed for the night, but some members were still inside the building when the shots rang out, which she described as sounding like fireworks—though she emphasized that this was not a festive display.
She added that she is “a bit shaken up” and that the attack feels like a disruption to the synagogue’s long-standing role in the community.
“It is devastating that there are those in this society who want to break apart what we have here.”
Police notes from the scene summarized the event as a firearm discharge near Old Colony Rd and Harrison Rd at 10:49 pm. They reported gunfire evidence and building damage, with no injuries and no suspect information at this time. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials asked anyone with information to come forward.
A brief correction: earlier reports incorrectly indicated vandalism at Kehillat Shaarei Torah, another nearby synagogue. CP24 has updated the information, confirming that the damage cited was from a prior incident that has not yet been repaired.
