Ontario’s police watchdog is confirming the suspected shooter in the Sons of Jacob Synagogue shooting in Belleville has died of injuries sustained in the incident.
Special Investigations Unit spokesperson Kristy Denette confirmed the death of Sean Ward, 29, of Quinte West Tuesday following Sunday evening’s shooting at the corner of Victoria and Bleeker Avenues.
The SIU stated a man armed with a shotgun opened fire at a police officer stationed outside the Sons of Jacob synagogue on Sunday night, leading to a shootout where the suspect and a Belleville Police officer sustained serious injuries.
Cst. Jeff Smith is currently in Kingston hospital in serious but stable condition in the intensive care unit and is expected to recover.
A Go Fund Me has been organized for the wounded officer and has already racked up more than $86,000 toward a goal of $130,000 as of 2 p.m. Tuesday.
The shooting took place at the start of Yom Kippur as people gathered to observe the holiest day on the Jewish calendar.
The SIU is currently investigating the incident and says four investigators and two forensic investigators have been assigned to the case.
