A hate-crimes investigation is underway after several mezuzahs were reportedly removed from doorways outside multiple units of a Toronto seniors housing building, police said. About 20 mezuzahs—a parchment scroll encased in a protective cover and affixed to a doorpost as a symbol of Jewish faith—were reported missing over the weekend in the building operated by Toronto Seniors Housing Corp., near Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue West, according to a police spokesperson.
The Toronto Police Service confirmed on Monday that the incident is being treated as a potential hate crime, with officers keeping in contact with the residents and the Hebrew community. The building houses a sizable number of elderly residents, including a notable population of Russian Jewish seniors, and there is an informal on-site gathering space used for Jewish holidays, which has now been affected by the thefts.
Councillor James Pasternak described the incident as shocking, noting the building is City of Toronto-owned and stressing that residents deserve safety and freedom from fear. He also commented that antisemitism appears to be increasing in the city and urged a strong, united condemnation of all forms of antisemitic behavior.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow denounced the act as outrageous and vile, highlighting that it targeted a public, supported housing facility for seniors and reaffirming the community’s right to live without intimidation or fear because of their Jewish identity.
In response to the thefts, B’nai Brith Canada announced plans for a community mezuzah drive to collect replacements for the affected seniors, arguing that the incident reflects a broader pattern of incitement and intimidation against Jewish residents in the city.
Police are asking anyone with information to come forward or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers. Additional context and updates are provided as the investigation progresses, with coverage supplemented by related reporting on antisemitism and community responses across Toronto.
Would-be readers are encouraged to share thoughts on how cities can better protect vulnerable communities and what measures could balance safety with civil discourse in times of rising antisemitism.
