Police continue to investigate after a Fredericton synagogue was vandalized over the weekend.
Several windows at the Sgoolai Israel Synagogue were smashed on International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
According to the Fredericton Police Force, a concerned passerby reported the damage on Saturday morning.
“At present, we are actively investigating to determine whether the damage resulted from targeted hostility or other circumstances,” police said in a statement.
“The investigation remains ongoing, and the Fredericton Police Force is actively pursuing all leads and information related to this incident.”
Meanwhile, New Brunswick’s justice minister denounced the incident, calling it a “cowardly antisemitic attack” in a weekend statement.
“There is no place in New Brunswick for antisemitism. I want to express my support to the Jewish community and assure them our department has already engaged with local police to offer support and any needed assistance as they investigate,” said Kris Austin.
“Since October 7, we have seen a horrific rise in antisemitic and Holocaust-denying activity both online, and in streets across Canada and around the world.
“Today, and every day, we must remember the atrocities which occurred under Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime. This dark chapter in the world’s history serves as a grim reminder of what can happen when hatred, prejudice and discrimination are tolerated.”
Austin said his department has engaged with Fredericton police to offer support and any needed assistance as they investigate.
A vigil took place at the synagogue on Sunday afternoon. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to raise money to repair the damage.
Just saw the terrible news & pictures of the anti-semitic desecration of the Fredericton synagogue, on Int’l Holocaust Remembrance Day.
There will be a vigil Sunday Jan. 28th at 2pm, Sgoolai Israel synagogue, 168 Westmorland St. All are welcome to join & stand against hate.— Susan Holt (@susanholt) January 27, 2024
The Fredericton Synagogue was vandalized on International Holocaust Remembrance Day in what can only be described as an act of hate. La synagogue de Fredericton a été vandaliser dans un acte de haine. C’est arrivé la Journée internationale de commemoration de l’Holocauste. pic.twitter.com/ulSrRYSR97
— David Coon (@DavidCCoon) January 27, 2024
