Ottawa, Canada — A daylight stabbing targeting a Jewish woman at a grocery store in Ottawa has sparked strong condemnation from public officials, who are calling it a deeply unsettling act of violence. The incident, which occurred Wednesday afternoon at a Loblaws location on Baseline Road, left the elderly victim in her 70s with critical injuries.
Local authorities arrested 71-year-old Joseph Rooke from Cornwall, Ontario, at the scene, charging him with aggravated assault and possession of a dangerous weapon. He appeared in court on Thursday and is scheduled for a subsequent hearing on September 2.
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) confirmed on Friday that the incident is being classified as a hate-motivated crime. In response, police have increased their presence in areas significant to the Jewish community and are in communication with community leaders to address safety concerns.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his support for hate crime investigators on social media, emphasizing that hatred and violence have no place in the province. “I am deeply disturbed by the violent attack that took place this week against a Jewish woman,” Ford stated. He extended his thoughts to the victim and the broader Jewish community in Ottawa, wishing her a swift recovery.
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe also spoke out, acknowledging the distress the attack has caused among community members. He expressed solidarity with Ottawa’s Jewish residents, labeling the violence as reprehensible.
Chandra Pasma, the Member of Provincial Parliament for Ottawa West-Nepean, described the situation as “deeply troubling,” while MP Anita Vandenbeld voiced her horror at the incident, noting she cannot fathom the fear experienced by Jewish families in the area.
Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, added his outrage on social media, condemning this latest act of antisemitism. He called for Prime Minister Mark Carney to take action, advocating for more stringent hate crime legislation and the deportation of non-citizens who promote hate.
Prime Minister Carney characterized the attack as “deeply disturbing,” reiterating his support for law enforcement as they work to hold the perpetrator accountable. He reassured Canada’s Jewish community that they are not alone in the fight against hate. “We stand with you against threats to your safety,” Carney stated.
The violent incident has intensified discussions around antisemitism and the importance of community safety. As the investigation unfolds, both officials and residents hope to send a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated.