Toronto police probe suspected antisemitic attacks on Jewish bagel chain

Shattered windows at two Toronto locations of Kiva's Bagel Bar have prompted a hate crime investigation by local police. The incidents, discovered Sunday morning, are believed to have occurred overnight. At one location on Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue, police found evidence of gunfire, including a bullet hole. A second location on Steeles Avenue West near Bathurst Street also had a shattered front window, though no gunfire was detected there.

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We understand that this is a concerning incident for residents and employees in the area, and especially for members of the Jewish community. All resources are available to us to investigate the case thoroughly.

Both Kiva's Bagel Bar locations are owned by Jewish individuals and are known gathering spots for the local Jewish community. No injuries were reported in either incident. Police are treating the events as suspected hate-motivated crimes and have increased their presence in the affected areas. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.

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There is no place for hate in Toronto. I will always stand with the Jewish community against antisemitism.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow strongly condemned the attacks, calling them "vile and unacceptable" and stating, "There is no place for hate in Toronto. I will always stand with the Jewish community against antisemitism." Noah Shack, CEO of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), described the bakery as a "hub" for Jewish families and expressed concern about a potential escalation of violence. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar also responded, calling the news "worrying" and urging the Canadian government to confront the "antisemitic violent wave."

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I am following with concern the worrying news from Toronto of further attacks against Jewish businesses this morning. While thankfully none were injured, this is the latest attack in a long and horrifying line of violence and intimidation against the Canadian Jewish community. The Canadian government must confront this antisemitic violent wave!