Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has condemned shootings at two locations of Kiva's Bagel Bar in Toronto, describing the attacks as deeply disturbing. Police are investigating the incidents as possible hate crimes.
In a statement on social media, Carney expressed outrage at the targeting of the bakery locations, which are established gathering places within Toronto's Jewish community. "I am appalled by the targeting of two Kiva's Bagel Bar locations, fixtures of Toronto's Jewish community that have long served as places for people to gather and connect," He said.
The Prime Minister stressed that Jewish Canadians must be able to live without fear based on their faith. "Jewish Canadians should be able to live, work, and worship free from fear, intimidation, and hate. Canada's government is absolute in our commitment to combatting the scourge of antisemitism," He added. Carney stated that law enforcement has his full support in conducting an investigation and holding those responsible accountable.
Toronto Police responded Sunday morning to reports of gunfire at the two bakery locations. The first shooting occurred shortly after 11:15 p.m. Saturday at the North York location near Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West. The business was closed and no injuries were reported. Approximately one hour later, at around 12:15 a.m. Sunday, shots were fired at the midtown Toronto location near Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue West.
Investigators believe the attacks are connected. On Monday, police released a photograph of an SUV believed used in both incidents. The Toronto Police Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force is leading the investigation with assistance from the Hate Crime Unit.
B'nai Brith Canada called for a forceful response, characterizing such attacks as threats to national security rather than isolated acts of violence.
The shootings occur amid a surge in antisemitic attacks across Toronto since October 2023. Earlier this year, gunfire struck two synagogues within hours in March, resulting in arrests. Temple Emanu-El in North York sustained damage during Purim celebrations that month. In late April, an individual attempted to force entry into an Orthodox synagogue in Thornhill, assaulting someone before leaving. The following day, a rock was thrown through a Toronto Judaica store window, marking a third attack on that business.