Mayor Bevilacqua expresses condolences for victims of Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, PA

Vaughan residents personally affected by tragedy; related to victim

The following is a statement delivered by Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua:
 
“On behalf of the City of Vaughan, I offer my deepest sympathy to the citizens of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and to all people of the Jewish faith, in the wake of this weekend’s attack at the Tree of Life Synagogue.
 
“As Mayor of the City of Vaughan, I condemn this cowardly, hateful and senseless act of terrorism that took so many innocent lives. This tragedy hits particularly close to home, as we have recently learned that one of the victims, Joyce Feinberg z''l, grew up in Toronto. Her brother, Dr. Robert Libman, and his wife, Dr. Esther Libman live in Vaughan and are members of the Beth Avraham Yoseph Congregation here in our community.
 
“As a city, Vaughan is committed to fostering diversity, understanding and mutual respect. One of our greatest strengths is tolerance and acceptance. Ours is a community that is welcoming, inclusive and compassionate. We continue to reach out with love, concern and prayers for Dr. Bob Libman, his wife and their extended family, as well as Jewish residents across our region and throughout the world. We have lowered our flags at City Hall, and at all City of Vaughan facilities, where they will fly at half-mast out of respect for the victims. The flags will remain at half-mast until further notice.
 
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who were killed and injured in the violent attack in Pittsburgh, with the families and friends of those affected, and with the first responders who bravely came to the rescue. We have created an online book of condolences for those who wish to share messages of sympathy and strength.”
 
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