Toronto Police Service is investigating two separate overnight incidents at Jewish-owned bakeries as potential hate crimes. The incidents, which occurred Sunday morning, resulted in property damage but no injuries.
Attacks Target Jewish-Owned Businesses
The first incident occurred at 8:12 a.m. near Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue. Police responding to a call found a broken window and evidence of shots fired. Approximately 18 minutes later, officers were dispatched to a second location at Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue, where they discovered another broken window but no signs of gunfire.
Hate crime unit officers are leading the investigation into both incidents. The guns and gangs unit is also assisting with the first incident.
Investigators Examining Potential Connection
Investigators are working to determine if the two attacks are connected and are seeking to identify those responsible. Toronto Police Service stated on X (formerly Twitter) that this is a primary focus of their inquiry.
While police did not immediately name the business, social media users and organizations identified the targeted locations as two branches of Kiva’s Bagel Bar and Kiva’s Bakery and Restaurant.
Community Voices Concern Over Antisemitism
The incidents have prompted renewed warnings from the Jewish community regarding escalating antisemitism in Toronto. Avi Benlolo, founding chairman and CEO of The Abraham Global Peace Initiative, stated that targeting two locations of the same Jewish-owned business constitutes an antisemitic hate crime. He added that Jewish businesses, schools, and synagogues have faced repeated targeting.
Member of Parliament Melissa Lantsman also commented on X, characterizing the events as a "targeted campaign of intimidation." She called for concrete action, including arrests and prosecutions, rather than mere sympathy.
