Toronto police are currently on the lookout for a motorcycle rider believed to be involved in two suspected hate-motivated mischief offenses at synagogues in the city. The incidents occurred overnight on Sunday, with rocks being thrown at Kehillat Shaarei Torah and the Pride of Israel Synagogue.
According to reports, the first incident took place just after 3 a.m., followed by another occurrence about half an hour later. Kehillat Shaarei Torah's spokesperson confirmed that their synagogue was targeted in what appears to be a hate-motivated act of vandalism. This marks the third antisemitic vandalism incident at the synagogue since April 19th of this year.
Michael Gilmore, the Executive Director of Kehillat Shaarei Torah, expressed concern over the safety of the Jewish community in Canada, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience in the face of such attacks.
The second targeted facility, the Pride of Israel Synagogue in North York, also suffered significant damage as rocks were thrown through its front windows. Carl Zeliger, vice chairman of the congregation, stated that the act must be viewed as antisemitic, given the nature of the vandalism.
Images from the scene depict large holes in the front windows and shattered glass strewn across the entrance of the synagogues. Police have confirmed that both incidents are being treated as suspected hate crimes and are actively investigating the matter.
The suspect is described as being 5-foot-7 to 5-foot-9 inches tall, wearing a light-colored jacket, and a black helmet with a visor. In response to these incidents, police officials have announced an increase in their presence in the affected areas to ensure the safety and security of the community.
