Toronto police are investigating two overnight attacks on locations of Kiva's Bagel Bar, a Jewish-owned business, as suspected hate-motivated offenses.
Officers responded Sunday morning to the Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue West location after employees discovered a bullet had pierced the storefront window. Investigators confirmed a firearm had been discharged at the site. No injuries were reported.
Shortly after, police were called to a second Kiva's location near Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West, where a window had been damaged. Detectives determined that location was not struck by gunfire but are investigating whether the two incidents are connected. Both attacks are believed to have occurred overnight before the businesses opened.
The Toronto Police Service's Hate Crime Unit, Guns and Gangs Task Force and local divisions are collecting evidence and reviewing surveillance footage. No suspects have been identified.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the attacks, stating that "acts of hatred and intimidation have no place in the city." She said police would continue providing enhanced security at synagogues, Jewish schools, community centers and other Jewish institutions during the investigation.
Noah Shack, chief executive of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, said the attacks targeted a business that serves as a gathering place for Jewish families. He characterized the incidents as especially troubling because they struck a location where people regularly meet with friends and relatives, and expressed concerns about the potential for escalating violence despite no one being hurt.
Police asked anyone with information or surveillance footage from either area to contact investigators.