Cops investigating gunshot at Jewish girls school in North York (2024)

Toronto Police have begun an investigation after a Jewish elementary school in North York was struck by a bullet early Saturday morning.

Police were called at 9 a.m. to Bais Chaya Mushka School for Girls, in the Dufferin St. and Finch Ave. W. area, after a bullet hole was found in a window.

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Insp. Paul Krawczyk, of the Guns and Gangs Task Force, spoke Saturday afternoon outside the school and said it is too early in the investigation to call this incident a hate crime.

“Police found what they believe was evidence of a firearm discharge at the school and confirmed a firearm discharge did occur,” Krawczyk said. “At 4:50 a.m., the suspects arrived at the school in a dark-coloured vehicle and exited the vehicle and opened fire causing damage to the front of the school.”

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Krawczyk added there were no injuries reported.

In recent months, there have been protests and demonstrations demanding an end to Israel’s war in Gaza that have targeted Jewish neighbourhoods in the city.

“I completely understand this can cause concern, fear and anxiety in the community, especially when it happens at a school like this,” Krawczyksaid.

There will be an increased police presence at schools and places of worship, he said, adding that community safety is a top priority for police.

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Officers will also be onsite at the school to support staff and students.

Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) issued a statement early Saturday evening, saying it is “horrified” to learn that shots were fired at the Jewish school.

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“This shocking escalation of violence directed at innocent Jewish children must serve as a wake-up call for political leaders in our city and across our country,” said Michael Levitt, President and CEO of FSWC.

“It is time for our leaders to stop with the sympathetic words and instead to take the decisive actions that are necessary to confront the escalating hatred that is plaguing our communities. Jews in this country will not hide or cower in fear in the face of this brazen and cowardly act.”

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow called the gunfire targeting the school a “despicable antisemitic act.”

“Jewish children and families should not be made to fear for their safety,” Chow said on social media. “Toronto Police are increasing their presence around religious schools and synagogues. I am in contact with the Chief about the plan to keep children and families safe.”

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Premier Doug Ford said the shooting incident was a “gross display of antisemitism.”

“It’s beyond belief that anyone could be this hateful,” Ford said. “Every student deserves to feel safe at school.”

Krawczyk is asking members of the public with any video of the incident not to post it on social media but to turn it over to police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or online at 222tips.com.

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