Authorities have arrested and charged a second suspect in connection with two shootings that targeted synagogues in the Toronto area earlier this year, marking another development in an investigation that has heightened concerns about antisemitic violence in Canada.

Toronto police announced Friday that a 17-year-old from Waterloo, Ontario, was arrested Wednesday following the execution of a search warrant at a residence in nearby Cambridge.

The charges stem from two separate shooting incidents that occurred on the night of March 6. The first attack took place shortly before midnight at Congregation Beth Avraham Yoseph of Toronto in Vaughan. Roughly 20 minutes later, police received reports of gunfire at Shaarei Shomayim Synagogue in Toronto, near the intersection of Bathurst Street and Glencairn Avenue.

Investigators determined that both buildings were struck by bullets, causing damage to the exterior of the properties. No one was injured in either incident.

Because the accused is a minor, Canadian law prohibits the publication of his identity. Police said he has been charged with multiple offenses, including two counts of reckless discharge of a firearm.

The teenager’s arrest follows the earlier apprehension of an 18-year-old man whom investigators have identified as a key figure in the alleged plot. That suspect was taken into custody earlier this month.

Following the announcement, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto issued a joint statement commending law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation.

“We thank the Toronto Police Service, York Regional Police, and all supporting units, including Waterloo Regional Police, involved in this extensive joint investigation for their continued work to identify and apprehend those responsible. These investigations are complex, and the coordination between forces reflects the seriousness with which these attacks are being treated.”

The organizations emphasized that the allegations go far beyond property damage.

“The nature of the charges laid in this case – including conspiracy and weapons trafficking offences – underscores the gravity of what occurred. These were not acts of vandalism or mischief. They were targeted acts of violence directed at Jewish houses of worship,” the two organizations added.

The groups also expressed alarm that one of the suspects is a minor, warning that extremist ideologies are increasingly influencing young people.

“The fact that the accused is a youth is deeply troubling. It underscores growing concerns about the radicalization of young people and the normalization of hate online and in our communities. Hate, extremism, and political violence are increasingly reaching younger audiences, with real-world consequences for public safety and community security.”

They called for a firm legal response to acts of antisemitic violence.

“Strong and consistent enforcement of the law is essential. The Jewish community, like all Canadians, must have confidence that acts of violence and intimidation will be met with serious consequences.”

The organizations further cautioned that repeated attacks on Jewish institutions pose a threat beyond the Jewish community itself.

“Multiple shootings targeting synagogues represent a dangerous escalation, not only for the Jewish community, but for the broader safety and social cohesion of our country. We will continue working with partners at all levels to ensure the safety and security of Jewish institutions and to address the conditions that allow hate to take root.”

The statement concluded with a message urging vigilance and continued cooperation with law enforcement.

“As the Jewish Security Network (JSN) continues to work closely with law enforcement, we encourage community members to stay aware of their surroundings and report any concerns. We remain committed to protecting Jewish life in Canada and confronting the growing normalization of hate and violence wherever it appears,” the statement concluded.

The arrests come amid a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents across Toronto and surrounding communities since the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Just days before the March 6 synagogue shootings, gunfire struck Temple Emanu-El in North York while congregants were celebrating Purim. No injuries were reported, though the building sustained damage.

In another incident in late April, a man allegedly attempted to force his way into an Orthodox synagogue in Thornhill and assaulted an individual before fleeing.

The following day, a rock was thrown through the window of Aleph Bet Judaica, a Jewish bookstore and gift shop that had already been targeted twice before.

Three weeks ago, Toronto police arrested and charged an 18-year-old suspect in connection with two drive-by shootings directed at visibly observant Jews in the city, adding to growing concerns over a surge in anti-Jewish attacks throughout the region.

{Matzav.com}