Two-and-a-half weeks after the shooting at Belleville’s Sons of Jacob Synagogue, the city’s police chief is offering a promising update on the condition of the officer on scene that evening.
Chief Murray Road stated Wednesday that Constable Jeff Smith continues to make steady progress and is improving each day.
His treatment has included multiple surgeries, and he continues to receive ongoing medical care.
Rodd stated BPS officials remain encouraged by his resilience and recovery.
Smith’s injuries were suffered after being shot by a lone gunman outside the Synagogue on the evening of Sept. 20.
The full statement from Chief Rodd is below.
On behalf of the members of the Belleville Police Service, I want to thank the public for the outpouring of support shown since the events of September 20 that impacted our members and seriously injured Constable Jeff Smith.
Every message, letter, card, and well wish received from across Ontario and beyond has been deeply appreciated.
Today, I am pleased to share that Constable Smith continues to make steady progress and is improving each day. His treatment has included multiple surgeries, and he continues to receive ongoing medical care. Considering the extent of his injuries, he is doing remarkably well, and we remain encouraged by his resilience and recovery.
In the weeks since the incident, the Service has met with municipal, provincial, federal, and diplomatic leaders, as well as community and public safety leaders. Through those conversations, we have reaffirmed our commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder in protecting our communities and opposing hate and violence in all its forms.
On behalf of Constable Smith, his family, and the members of the Belleville Police Service, thank you for your continued support and encouragement. It has meant a great deal during this difficult time.
More than $934,000 has been raised in a Go Fund Me for Smith’s family as of early Tuesday afternoon.
Photo: Facebook
