Ottawa, Canada — A recent stabbing incident at a grocery store in Ottawa has sparked widespread condemnation from public officials, who are calling it a troubling act of hate-related violence. The attack occurred Wednesday afternoon at a Loblaws store on Baseline Road, leaving a Jewish woman in her 70s with critical injuries.
Authorities arrested Joseph Rooke, 71, from Cornwall, Ontario, at the scene. He faces charges of aggravated assault and possession of a dangerous weapon. Rooke made a court appearance on Thursday and is scheduled to return on September 2.
The Ottawa Police Service announced this week that the incident is being treated as a hate-motivated crime. Police have since coordinated increased patrols in areas frequented by the Jewish community, maintaining open lines of communication with community leaders to ensure safety concerns are addressed.
During a press conference, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe voiced his dismay over the incident, emphasizing that no one should fear violence while carrying out everyday activities, such as grocery shopping or attending places of worship. He has reached out to the stabbing victim and expressed relief that she is responding positively, with gratitude extended to first responders and the broader community for their support.
College Ward Councillor Laine Johnson echoed the mayor’s sentiments, describing the attack as “gut-wrenching.” She raised concerns about the broader implications of such violence on community safety, questioning how residents can feel secure in their daily lives amid such incidents.
Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford took to social media to denounce the violence, asserting that hate and antisemitism have no place in the province. He shared his thoughts and prayers for the victim and the Jewish community in Ottawa.
Other officials also expressed their outrage. Ontario MPP Chandra Pasma referred to the event as “deeply troubling,” while MP Anita Vandenbeld described her feelings of horror and empathy for the fear experienced by Jewish residents. Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre called the act another “vile antisemitic attack” and urged Prime Minister Mark Carney to implement stronger laws against antisemitism and to deport foreign nationals promoting hate.
Carney also responded to the incident, calling it “deeply disturbing.” He extended his support to the victim and the Jewish community, reminding them that they are not alone in the fight against hatred. He pledged that the government would take action against antisemitism in all its forms.
In light of the stabbing, Mayor Sutcliffe drew attention to other hate-motivated incidents in the area, such as the recent assault on a Muslim woman on public transit and instances of racist graffiti in local neighborhoods. He reiterated solidarity with all marginalized communities, including Muslims, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat hate and strengthen community ties.
The events serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles against hate and violence in various forms, prompting calls for unity and vigilance in protecting all members of the community.