“Concrete action” sought after second shooting at Jewish school

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On Saturday morning, police found ten bullet casings at the school and other property damage, including the broken window. They said a suspect or suspects in a motor vehicle fired a firearm at the school.

There was no evidence of suspects, but police said they were investigating whether the two incidents were related.

So far, police have not classified Saturday’s incident as a hate crime, although the Hate Crimes Unit is involved in the investigation.

Police said the incident was “deeply disturbing” and they would increase their presence in the area.

“We understand the fear and pain this causes, especially on Yom Kipper,” police said on social media. “To the Jewish community of Toronto: We stand with you. Your safety is our priority. We are committed to finding those responsible.”

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“If people aren’t safe in schools, it’s not safe for anyone,” said Daniel Held, program director for the United Jewish Appeal of Greater Toronto.

“In frightening times, we will live our Jewish lives despite the hatred we face,” Held said. “Last year there was a 50% increase in hate crimes. This is not the Toronto I grew up in and we need to take strong action.

“As Jews, we know that violent words can lead to violent actions. What happened here crossed a dangerous line. It was a deliberate attempt to spread fear in the Jewish community, but we are more united than ever and more committed to fighting anti-Semitism. We will live our Jewish life to the fullest. We are strong, resilient and not going anywhere.”

There has been a call for all three levels of government to take action and combat hate crimes after political leaders including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow called the incident “disgusting” on social media. had described as “terrible.”

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“We need concrete action from our elected officials. “How many times will students wake up with broken windows before action is taken?” Held said.

Rabbi Nochum Sosover, the school’s executive director, was grateful that no one was injured.

“I want to thank the community for the love,” Sosover said. “It’s warming to see this kind of shock. We will not be afraid and every time we will become stronger. Elected officials must do more to combat hate crimes. These people must be brought to justice.”

Jews no longer feel safe, said Rabbi Yaacov Vidal, the director of the Bais Chaya Mushka girls’ school.

“I’m worried about where we’re going. Action must be taken before someone gets hurt,” Vidal said.

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