SIU investigates after police officer, man injured in gunfire exchange near Belleville, Ont. synagogue

Ontario’s Police Watchdog has taken over an investigation after a man armed with a shotgun allegedly opened fire on a police officer Sunday evening near a synagogue in Belleville, Ont.

The incident unfolded near the Sons of Jacob Synagogue on Victoria Avenue on the evening of Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism.

Belleville police say one of their officers encountered an individual in a residential neighbourhood around 7 p.m.

They say during an interaction, both Belleville Police Const. Jeff Smith and 29-year-old Sean Ward were injured and taken to hospital.

“During the incident, Const. Jeff Smith sustained serious injuries,” said Belleville Police Deputy Chief Sheri Meeks. “Const. Smith joined the Belleville Police Service on Dec. 27, 2013, and has served our community with distinction for nearly 13 years. He is a longstanding and highly respected member of our emergency response unit, known by his colleagues as a dedicated officer, trusted teammate and committed public servant.”

The officer is in critical-stable condition and Ward is in life-threatening condition after being revived at the scene.

“So it’s my understanding that he was very critical, and was VSA (Vital Signs Absent), but was sort of ‘brought back to life’ so to speak,” said Kristy Denette, a spokesperson with the SIU. “But at last check, he’s still in hospital in life-threatening condition.”

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) says there were dozens of bullet holes in the vicinity, including on vehicles and homes.

The deputy chief did not speak to a possible motive in the shooting, or if the shooter’s goal was to get inside the synagogue. . Officers said they could not provide any further information on the investigation.

The SIU also says a second officer opened fire after the initial gunfire.

Premier Doug Ford responded on X, saying he was “disgusted by the shooting.”

“My thoughts are with the Jewish community in Belleville and across Ontario, who have every right to gather and worship safely and without fear,” said Ford.

Four investigators and two forensic investigators have been assigned to the case.

The SIU is urging anyone with information about the investigation, including video or photos, to contact the lead investigator at 1-800-787-8529 or online.

READ MORE: Police halt search for second suspect in Hamilton east end shooting