Toronto police are searching for a suspect vehicle after visibly Jewish victims were shot with a gel-blaster, a replica firearm, in a suspected hate-motivated assault in North York last week. Community leaders are calling the incident a dangerous escalation of antisemitic violence.
Details of the Attack
According to the Toronto Police Service (TPS), an undisclosed number of victims who were clearly identifiable as members of the Jewish community were shot with what was described as an Orbeez-type gun on Thursday in the area of Bathurst Street and Lawrence Avenue West. This neighborhood has a high concentration of Jewish residents, synagogues, schools, and other facilities. Police reported that the victims sustained minor injuries.
Suspect Vehicle and Investigation
The shots were fired from a blue SUV, which fled the scene. A nearby residential surveillance camera captured the vehicle at 9:47 p.m. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact police directly or Crime Stoppers anonymously. The TPS is investigating whether the incident was hate-motivated.
What is a Gel-Blaster?
An Orbeez gun, also known as a gel blaster, is a non-lethal firearm-like device that shoots small, soft, water-absorbent beads. While marketed to children as young as five, these devices often resemble actual firearms and are used by older individuals. According to Technology.org, being shot by a pistol-like Orbeez gun typically feels like a quick pinch and may leave a temporary red mark, but rifle-like versions are more powerful and can cause significant short-term pain and bruises lasting a day.
Community Response
Jewish leaders have expressed alarm, warning that antisemitic violence is escalating in Canada and elsewhere. They emphasize that such attacks must be addressed urgently to prevent further harm.
