Members of the York Regional Police Hate Crime Prevention Unit are investigating two separate reports of hate/bias incidents in the City of Vaughan.

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, police responded to a park in the area of Bathurst and Major Mackenzie Drive West for the report of anti-Semitic graffiti. Investigators attended and located a spray-painted swastika on the sidewalk. The incident was investigated and the graffiti was removed.

Investigators are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying suspects. Anyone who has information about this crime, or anyone with video recordings from the area around the time of the incident, is urged to contact police.

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, investigators were made aware of a video on social media, filmed outside of an elementary school in the City of Vaughan. Investigators are looking into the content of the video. No threats were made and there is no concern for public safety.

York Regional Police is aware of the increased concern within the community as a result of these two incidents. While both incidents will be fully investigated, they remain unrelated to one another and are being investigated as separate incidents.

In order to promote and ensure a safe environment for students, staff and families, York Regional Police and the York Region District School Board are taking extra steps. Currently and throughout the week Youth Engagement Officers will be maintaining a presence in the area around the school to promote safety and an inclusive environment. There will also be enhanced district patrols within the community.

Hate has no place in York Region. York Regional Police takes these matters seriously and is reminding the community we will not tolerate any form of hate crime. All reports of hate crime or hate/bias incidents will be investigated thoroughly. If you witness or have been the victim of a hate crime or hate/bias incident, we encourage you to report it to police immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hate Crime Prevention Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6552, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
                    25-151090 / 147457
                    May 11, 2025