Ottawa police detectives are still investigating the
shocking case
of a Jewish woman who was
stabbed
in the torso by a stranger Wednesday afternoon for no other reason than shopping at a grocery store known for the largest selection of kosher — even for Passover food — in town.
The unsuspecting woman, in her 70s, was knifed by a stranger as she shopped at Loblaws at College Square on Baseline Road.
Moments after the unprovoked attack, police say the accused put the knife down and surrendered.
The West Criminal Investigations Unit first investigated the case, and confirmed on Thursday the police hate-crimes squad has been enlisted.
The hate-crimes unit is investigating Joseph (Joe) Rooke, 71, of Cornwall, Ont.
The criminal investigations unit has already charged Rooke with aggravated assault and possession of a dangerous weapon in the bloody attack. But he’s still under investigation and could face more charges in the case.
Police detectives have reviewed some of the accused’s comments on social media, including vile statements about Jews.
Police say the woman entered the grocery store with a friend around 1:35 p.m. on Wednesday, only to be stabbed by a stranger.
She was rushed to hospital with serious wounds, treated and later released.
Police were called and the accused surrendered right after the attack.
Rooke remains in jail awaiting a trip through the criminal justice system.
The police say they’re keeping an open mind and looking at all potential motives behind the unprovoked attack. So far, Rooke has not been charged with a hate crime.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Friday: “I’m deeply disturbed by the violent attack that took place this week against a Jewish woman at an Ottawa grocery store. My thoughts are with the victim as well as Ottawa’s Jewish community. I pray she makes a full recovery.”
Ford continued: “The Ottawa Police’s hate crimes unit has my full support as they carry out their investigation into this attack. Hate, violence and antisemitism have no place in our province.”
