Investigators with the York Regional Police Hate Crime Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a male suspect following an assault at a Vaughan synagogue.
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, at approximately 9:35 a.m., officers attended a synagogue in the area of Bathurst Street and Steeles Avenue for an assault. An unknown male attempted to enter a synagogue and - when he was denied entry - he attempted to force his way inside.
The suspect threw a stack of papers at security personnel, who prevented him from entering.
Shortly after, a victim came forward who reported being assaulted by the same suspect. The victim was walking on the sidewalk near the synagogue, when the suspect blocked the victim’s path.
As the victim attempted to walk around the suspect, they were assaulted.
The victim sustained facial injuries.
The suspect is described as male, with a dark complexion, between the ages of 25 and 35, standing at approximately 5’8”. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, a beige jacket with a hood, a beige scarf and white running shoes.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hate Crime Prevention Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6552 or by email at hatecrime@yrp.ca. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.
Crime prevention is our shared responsibility: Find up-to-date crime data in York Region on the Community Safety Data Portal, or become a partner in community safety by signing up for the Security Camera Registry today.
Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-139957
April 29, 2026
