Suspect 18 identified after three shot at outside Toronto synagogue

Toronto police have identified an 18-year-old suspect following a shooting outside a synagogue in North York that left three people injured and shocked the local community.

The incident took place late Friday evening near a synagogue where worshippers and visitors had gathered during a community event. Authorities said emergency crews responded quickly after reports of gunfire outside the religious building.

According to police, three individuals were shot during the incident and transported to hospital with injuries described as serious but not life-threatening. Investigators said the victims included two men and one woman, though officials have not yet publicly released their identities. Witnesses at the scene described hearing several loud gunshots followed by panic as people rushed for safety outside the synagogue.

Toronto Police later identified the suspect as an 18-year-old male believed to have fled the area shortly after the shooting. Authorities released his name and photograph as part of a public appeal while warning that he should be considered dangerous. Police investigators said they are actively searching for the suspect and have asked members of the public not to approach him if seen.

Investigators have not yet confirmed a motive for the attack, but officials said the Hate Crime Unit has joined the investigation due to the location of the shooting and concerns from the Jewish community. Police are examining whether the synagogue itself was intentionally targeted or whether the violence was connected to another dispute involving individuals present at the scene. Authorities stressed that all possible motives are being investigated carefully.

Community leaders expressed deep concern following the incident and called for increased protection around places of worship across Toronto. Members of the Jewish community said the shooting created fear among local families and worshippers, especially during a period of increased security concerns involving religious institutions worldwide.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and several political leaders strongly condemned the violence and said attacks or threats near religious institutions are unacceptable. Officials promised full cooperation with police and security agencies to ensure public safety and reassure affected communities. Additional police patrols were deployed in the area following the shooting as investigators continued gathering evidence and reviewing surveillance footage.

Police are asking anyone with information, videos, or dashcam footage connected to the incident to contact investigators immediately. Authorities said the investigation remains active and more charges could be filed as detectives continue examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Community leaders meanwhile called for unity and support for the injured victims and their families during the ongoing investigation.