Belleville Police Service cruiser. /BPS Facebook photo
A Belleville Police officer and another person were injured during an incident in the city’s east end Sunday evening, prompting an investigation by Ontario’s police watchdog.
Belleville Police say an officer encountered an individual near Bleecker Avenue and Victoria Avenue at approximately 7:10 p.m. on September 20.
Both the officer and the individual sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.
Police have notified the province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) and say they cannot provide further information at this time.
The service has asked the public to avoid the area and follow directions from emergency personnel. Police say there is no risk to public safety.
In a separate statement, Belleville’s mayor said they were deeply saddened and disturbed by the incident.
“Violence of this nature has no place in our community. The City of Belleville has zero tolerance for acts of violence motivated by hate,” the mayor said.
The mayor also expressed support for Belleville’s Jewish community and those affected by the incident, saying everyone has the right to feel safe, including when gathering and practising their faith.
The statement offered thoughts and prayers for the injured officer’s recovery and extended support to the officer’s family, colleagues and the Belleville Police Service.
The mayor commended police for their response and said the city would continue working with the service as more information becomes available.
