Toronto Police have launched a hate crime investigation after two locations of the Jewish-owned bakery chain Akiva's Bagel Bar were vandalized overnight in what authorities are treating as suspected anti-Semitic attacks. No injuries were reported in either incident.
The incidents were discovered Sunday morning as employees arrived to open the two bakery branches.
At approximately 8:12 a.m., police responded to the chain's Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue location, where investigators found a bullet hole in the front window. Authorities confirmed that evidence indicated the window had been struck by gunfire.
About 20 minutes later, officers were called to a second branch on Steeles Avenue West near Bathurst Street, where the front window had been smashed. Police said there was no evidence that a firearm had been used in that incident.
Jewish Community Gathering Place Targeted
Both locations belong to the same Jewish-owned bakery chain, which is widely regarded as a popular gathering place for Toronto's Jewish community, particularly on Sunday mornings.
Police have not reported any injuries or additional property damage beyond the broken windows.
Hate Crime Detectives Join Investigation
Toronto Police's Hate Crime Unit is leading the investigation alongside detectives from the Guns and Gangs Unit.
Authorities said they are investigating whether the attacks were motivated by anti-Semitic hatred and have increased police patrols in the surrounding areas.
No arrests have been announced.
A police spokesperson said investigators are dedicating all available resources to determine those responsible.
"We recognize that this is a deeply troubling incident for residents, employees, and particularly for members of the Jewish community. We are committing all necessary resources to this investigation," the officer said.
Mayor Condemns the Attacks
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow strongly condemned the incidents, describing them as "appalling and unacceptable."
"There is no place for hate in Toronto," Chow said. "I will always stand with the Jewish community against antisemitism."
Noah Shack, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), described the bakery as an important gathering place for Jewish families and expressed concern that the attacks may reflect a broader escalation of anti-Semitic incidents in the city.
He noted that the latest attacks follow previous violent incidents targeting Jewish institutions in Toronto, raising renewed concerns about the security of the local Jewish community.
Investigation Continues
Police are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and gathering forensic evidence from both locations as the investigation continues.
Authorities have appealed to the public for information that could help identify those responsible for the attacks.
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