Ottawa police increase presence at synagogues and Jewish community sites after Belleville shooting
A shooting outside a Belleville synagogue during Yom Kippur services has prompted Ottawa police to boost patrols in response to concerns from the local Jewish community.
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Ottawa police are increasing patrols around synagogues and Jewish community locations across the city following a shooting outside Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville on Sunday evening during Yom Kippur services.
A suspect identified as Sean Ward, 29, of Quinte West, allegedly opened fire on Const. Jeff Smith of Belleville Police Service with a shotgun while Smith was stationed outside the building. Smith, who has been with the Belleville Police Service since 2013, is in intensive care in critical but stable condition. A second Belleville officer fired a weapon during the exchange. The Ontario Special Investigations Unit is investigating.
Ottawa Police Service issued a statement Monday acknowledging that the incident "may be felt deeply by many people, regardless of where it occurred" and that it "understandably raised concerns and may leave some feeling shaken, vulnerable, or fearful." The service said it has no information indicating a specific threat to Ottawa's Jewish community in connection with the shooting.
Ottawa police are maintaining close contact with community partners, faith leaders and organizations. Police are continuing to monitor developments and will adjust their response as necessary. The public is encouraged to report suspicious or concerning activity by calling 911 for immediate threats to safety or contacting police directly for hate-motivated incidents, threats and other concerns.
What specific locations and venues is Ottawa police prioritizing for increased patrols?
Has there been any threat communication or intelligence suggesting Ottawa-area targeting?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting took place outside Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville during Yom Kippur services on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Who was shot?
Const. Jeff Smith of Belleville Police Service was shot. Smith, employed since 2013, is in intensive care in critical but stable condition.
What is Ottawa police doing in response?
Ottawa Police Service is increasing patrols around synagogues and Jewish community locations across the city and maintaining close contact with community partners and faith leaders.
