The local Jewish community is grieving the violent attack, just six months after a mass shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh where eleven people were killed and seven injured. The Rabbi at the Anshe Sholom Temple says he fears people are becoming de-sensitized to these horrific murders because they happen so frequently across the globe, adding that while this time Jews were targeted, it can, and has happened to worshipers of many different religions.

Rabbi Jordan Cohen says Hamilton Police have provided great support over the years. Staff Sergeant Steven Hahn saying officers are encouraged to drive by places of worship, park in their lots, and make themselves visible any time they can.

It was an attack on innocent worshippers at a synagogue near San Diego, California. One woman was shot to death, several others injured, including a child. Jews here in Hamilton are horrified, but unfortunately not surprised.

The attack happened on the last day of Passover, which also was the 6 month anniversary of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburg. In October, a gunman opened fire on Jewish worshippers, killing 11 people.

Rabbi Cohen says no house of worship is safe from the hate and violence of extremists. In March, 50 Muslims were murdered by a gunman in Christchurch, New Zealand. The most horrific attack the country has ever seen. Just last week, Christians in Sri Lanka were the ones targeted during Easter celebrations. Three churches were bombed as well as three hotels, killing more than 250 people.

Its why things are done a little differently now at the temple in Westdale. Doors are locked, surveillance cameras always being watched, but the congregation remains strong. The Rabbi says he has been speaking with Muslim Imams in Hamilton about ways to help each other stay safe. The Rabbi saying a prominent Hamilton Imam joined in Passover celebrations, two highly targeted religious communities coming together to support each other.