Politicians categorical outrage at ‘vile’ assault on Jewish lady

The stabbing of a Jewish lady in broad daylight at an Ottawa grocery retailer has prompted public officers together with Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford to talk out in opposition to what they’re calling a disturbing act of violence locally.

The unprovoked assault occurred Wednesday afternoon at a Loblaws retailer on Baseline Road. The sufferer, in her 70s, was critically injured.

Joseph Rooke, 71, of Cornwall, Ont., was charged with aggravated assault and possession of a harmful weapon on the scene, police mentioned. Rooke appeared in court docket Thursday and is scheduled to return Sept. 2.

“After a thorough investigation, this incident is considered a hate-motivated crime,” the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) confirmed Friday afternoon.

“OPS is in contact with leaders of the Jewish community, and directives have been issued to officers to increase their presence in areas of significance to the Jewish community,” police wrote.

Ford wrote on-line that hate crime investigators have his “full support.”

“Hate, violence and antisemitism have no place in our province,” the Ontario premier wrote.

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe acknowledged on-line that the “reprehensible violence has understandably caused significant distress within Ottawa’s Jewish community,” and expressed his “support and solidarity.” 

Ottawa West-Nepean MPP Chandra Pasma referred to as it a “deeply troubling incident,” whereas MP Anita Vandenbeld posted that she was “mortified” and “can’t imagine the fear of our Jewish neighbours.”

Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre added to the dialog on Friday morning, saying he was “outraged by yet another vile antisemitic attack.”

He referred to as on Prime Minister Mark Carney “to ensure there are serious consequences for those who commit or incite antisemitic crimes — including stronger hate-crime laws, and the deportation of non-Canadians who come here to spread hatred.”

On X, Carney referred to as the assault “deeply disturbing” on Friday.

“My thoughts are with her, her family, and Ottawa’s Jewish community, and my support is with law enforcement as they work to swiftly bring the perpetrator to justice,” Carney wrote.

“To Canada’s Jewish community: you are not alone. We stand with you against hate and threats to your safety, and we will act to confront antisemitism wherever it appears.”