Survivor of Belleville, Ont., synagogue shooting cites need for extensive security
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OTTAWA – The vice-president of the Belleville, Ont., synagogue that was attacked by a gunman in September says costly, enhanced security measures are needed to ensure the safety of congregants.
Shima Vigodda of the Sons of Jacob Synagogue told a news conference today that before the attack, the synagogue’s security priorities were things like replacing windows broken in acts of vandalism and installing burglar alarms.
He said an existing federal program that helps places of worship make security improvements was adequate for such modest expenses.
Vigodda, who survived the gunman’s assault, said it has become clear that more expensive measures are necessary — improvements the federal program would not fully cover.
He said those measures include things like installing bullet-resistant glass, replacing inner and outer doors, building a safe room, installing fencing to slow or halt a would-be attacker, and having security personnel or armed police on site.
Vigodda said such measures are necessary not only to ensure physical security but to deter would-be attackers.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 2, 2026.
— With files from Alyssa Wheeler