The province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) said on Tuesday afternoon the suspect involved in a shootout with police outside a synagogue in Belleville has died.
Sean Ward, of Quinte West, was critically injured on Sunday after exchanging fire with Belleville police near Sons of Jacob Synagogue.
Congregants were inside the church on Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, when Ward arrived with a shotgun and fired at a police officer stationed outside of the synagogue, the SIU said.
A second policer officer arrived shortly after and returned fire.
Belleville Dep. Chief Sheri Meeks said on Monday afternoon that Const. Jeff Smith sustained serious injuries and the 13-year police service veteran was continuing his recovery.
Meeks said while Smith faces a significant road to recovery, his condition has stabilized.
“We remain hopeful and encouraged by his progress.”
Meeks acknowledged the significant impact on the Belleville Jewish community.
“We recognize the concern and uncertainty many may be feeling…let me be very clear. Hate and violence have no place in our community. Every person deserves to feel safe when attending a place of worship, gathering with loved ones or participating in community life.”
An SIU spokesperson said as many as 20-30 gunshots were fired during the shootout, hitting nearby cars and homes.
Asked at the press conference if it was a terrorist attack against the Jewish community, given the time and place, the SIU spokesperson said she would be speculating but common sense would say that probably was the case.
The County of Hastings said Monday it is deeply saddened by the tragic incident and their thoughts are with the injured Belleville Police Service officer, congregants of the Sons of Jacob Synagogue, their families, and everyone affected.
Founded in 1905, Sons of Jacob has been the spiritual home of Jewish life in Belleville and the Quinte region for over a century, according to its website.
