South Simcoe Police to increase patrols following Chanukah mass shooting in Australia

S/S Dave Phillips from South Simcoe Police discusses their plan to increase their presence after the mass shooting at a Jewish holiday celebration in Australia.

In light of the mass shooting that took place at a Jewish holiday celebration in Australia on Sunday, South Simcoe Police confirmed they will be increasing their patrols.

“The South Simcoe Police Service is deeply saddened and concerned by the horrific terrorist attack targeting Jewish community members in Sydney, Australia at Bondi Beach during an annual Chanukah festival event,” said the service in part of a Sunday social media post. “Regardless of where this violence occurs, its impact is felt far beyond borders. This senseless act of violence has no place in any community, anywhere in the world. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and Jewish communities everywhere who continue to face fear and trauma as a result of acts of hatred.”

The attack in Sydney, Australia unfolded Sunday morning during ‘Chanukah by the Sea,’ a public celebration marking the start of the eight-day Chanukah festival at one of the country’s most iconic beaches, where hundreds had gathered.

Australian authorities say two gunmen were involved; one was fatally shot by police and the other has been arrested. At least eleven were killed and at least 29 were wounded, including two police officers, officials noted.

The shooting is the deadliest in Australia in nearly three decades and comes amid a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents across the continent.

“We also acknowledge the bravery of the police officers who lost their lives and were injured during this attack while courageously protecting members of their community,” continued South Simcoe Police in its statement, before bringing things back closer to home. “We will be increasing our visible presence at key places of worship and community centres, reinforcing our commitment to safety and inclusivity.”

York Regional Police

York Regional Police also issued a community alert adding that the violence in Australia is having a local impact and that officers are stepping up visibility across the region during Chanukah celebrations.

“In light of the recent violence against the Jewish community in Australia, and ongoing Chanukah celebrations, York Regional Police is reassuring citizens we have been, and will continue to, support our communities through increased outreach, visibility and police patrols across York Region,” the service said.

Police said they remain in constant contact with federal and provincial partners and will not tolerate hate crimes or threats of violence.

Staying vigilant

Anyone who witnesses or experiences a hate-bias incident is asked to come forward to police or Crime Stoppers.

The Town of Innisfil and City of Barrie have scheduled candle-lighting ceremonies Monday evening for the second night of Chanukah.

The holiday runs until next Monday evening.

With files from the Associated Press and CTV’s Jermaine Wilson.