An investigation is underway into the distribution of flyers with antisemitic messaging in Belleville, Ont., according to police. The flyers were reported just over a week after a gunman opened fire outside of the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in the eastern Ontario city. In a brief media release issued Thursday afternoon, the Belleville Police Service said it is aware of the flyers being distributed in the east end of the city and asked anyone with information or video evidence to contact investigators. “We recognize that incidents such as this can cause concern within our community,” police said in a media release. “Hate has no place in Belleville, and the Belleville Police Service remains in contact with community leaders and are taking proactive steps to support the safety and well-being of residents. Increased patrols will continue throughout Belleville, including around places of worship and other community gathering spaces.” Police said on Sept. 20, 29-year-old Sean Ward of Quinte West opened fire on a police officer who was stationed outside the synagogue. Ward suffered life-threatening injuries in the shootout with police and later died from injuries in the hospital. Belleville Police Const. Jeff Smith was hit by gunfire multiple times and continues to recover in hospital. Police Chief Murry Rodd said the shooting was a “deliberate attack directed at members of the Jewish community.” Police are asking anyone with witnesses or experiences a hate-motivated incident to call 911 in an emergency or the Belleville Police Service non-emergency line at 613-966-0882. With files from CP24’s Bryann Aguilar and Codi Wilson
