GTA Synagogue Shootings Prompt Investigation, Heightened Security

Toronto, ON – Police are investigating shootings at three synagogues in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) over the past week, prompting a “relentless” investigation and increased security measures. The incidents have heightened fears within the Jewish community and drawn condemnation from political leaders.

Recent Incidents

On Saturday, March 8, 2026, gunfire damaged two synagogues: Shaarei Shomayim synagogue in North York and Beth Avraham Yosef of Toronto synagogue in Thornhill. According to the Jewish Security Network (JSN), both synagogues were empty at the time of the shootings.

Earlier in the week, on Monday, Temple Emanu-El in North York was also targeted in a shooting shortly after a Purim celebration. No injuries were reported in any of the incidents, but the synagogues sustained bullet hole damage.

Police Response

Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw stated that investigators are dedicating significant resources to the case and pursuing every lead. “We are going to be relentless and leave no stone unturned,” he said during a press conference. “This is completely appalling, and we are treating this with the utmost seriousness.”

Police have increased patrols and visits to Jewish institutions throughout the GTA and are asking anyone with information or video footage to come forward.

York Regional Police are investigating the shooting in Thornhill and are working to determine if it is connected to the incidents in North York. As of March 8, 2026, there is no definitive evidence linking the two incidents.

Political Condemnation

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree condemned the shootings as part of a troubling rise in antisemitic violence, stating, “This is unacceptable.” He emphasized that the federal government will continue working with police and other levels of government to address hate crimes.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also issued a statement condemning the shootings as “disgusting acts of antisemitism, hate and intimidation.”

Ongoing Investigation

Both investigations remain ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the police.