A synagogue in a Montreal suburb was targeted early Wednesday in what police suspect was an arson attack, marking the second time the building has been hit by an incendiary device in just over a year. Authorities reported that a nearby Jewish office building also appeared to have been targeted, though it remains unclear if the two incidents are connected.
Montreal police responded to a 911 call shortly before 3 a.m. reporting a fire at Congregation Beth Tikvah in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, police spokesperson Véronique Dubuc said. Firefighters extinguished the blaze and discovered an incendiary device at the scene. The synagogue sustained minor damage, including a smashed window, smoke damage, and a damaged door. Witnesses reported seeing a suspect fleeing the area shortly after the fire began.
No injuries were reported, and no arrests have been made. Police have yet to determine whether the fire constitutes a hate crime, Dubuc added.
A few hours after the synagogue fire, officers discovered similar damage—a smashed window and a broken glass door—at the West Island office of the Federation CJA, a prominent Jewish community organization. However, no incendiary device was found at this second location. Authorities are investigating whether the incidents are connected.
This is not the first time these locations have been targeted. In November 2023, both Congregation Beth Tikvah and the Federation CJA office experienced arson attempts that caused minor damage. No injuries were reported, and no arrests were made in those cases.
The attacks have drawn widespread condemnation. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau denounced the incidents on social media, calling them “cowardly and criminal” acts of antisemitism. Israeli President Isaac Herzog also condemned the attacks, urging the Canadian government to take decisive action to combat hatred.
Police investigations into the latest attacks are ongoing.
