Ajax, Ont., was shaken by a horrifying incident this past weekend when a woman wearing a hijab was almost set on fire at the Ajax Public Library. Authorities reported that on Saturday, March 22, 2025, Durham Regional Police responded to an assault call at the library's main branch around noon. According to police reports, while studying, the victim was assaulted by a 25-year-old woman who allegedly hurled profanities and projectiles at her.
The confrontation escalated alarmingly when the suspect attempted to forcibly remove the victim's hijab, pouring an unknown liquid onto the garment before trying to ignite it with a lighter. Fortunately, the woman screamed for help, prompting security personnel to intervene before any critical injuries occurred. The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended a few hours later, leading to her being charged with two counts of assault with a weapon and three counts of failing to comply with a probation order.
A joint statement was issued by Mayor Shaun Collier and library board chair Piyali Correya expressing their horror at this act of violence, which they believe was motivated by Islamophobia. They emphasized that the library seeks to be a safe, welcoming environment for everyone, rejecting any forms of hate or violence within its confines. “To the victim of this terrible act and anyone triggered, hurt, or disheartened by this attack — especially as it occurred during Ramadan, a month of peace and spiritual connection — we are here to support you and to stand up against all forms of hate and intolerance,” they stated.
The National Council of Canadian Muslims responded by expressing their outrage, calling for the incident to be investigated as a hate crime. “We are horrified, though not shocked, to learn of this unprovoked attack on a Muslim woman,” stated their CEO, Stephen Brown, who also remarked on the increasing prevalence of Islamophobia in recent years. “It is an outrage that this kind of violence has become a regular occurrence in our community. We strongly urge authorities to investigate this assault as a hate crime.”
Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh condemned the attack as well, calling it a “horrifying attack” in a social media post. “Islamophobia has no place in Canada,” Singh added, highlighting that the incident was a reminder of how divisive rhetoric can mar the country's values.
The suspect, identified as Kaley-Ann Freier from Ajax, was taken into custody without incident and remains in police custody pending a bail hearing. Furthermore, the investigation is still ongoing, with more charges possibly being pursued if deemed necessary by the Crown Attorney’s office. Ajax Council reiterated their commitment to supporting all those affected by this incident, urging community members to remain vigilant against hate and violence in any form.
The incident at Ajax Public Library, particularly occurring during Ramadan until March 29, underscores the alarming trend of rising Islamophobic attacks in Canada. As local officials and community leaders come together to address these issues, they hope this terrible event serves as a wake-up call for increased dialogue, understanding, and a collaborative approach to combat hate.
This attack resonates beyond Ajax, as it reflects a broader fear present in many communities across Canada where minority groups often find themselves targeted by hate-driven violence. The National Council of Canadian Muslims and others are calling for a serious examination of the circumstances surrounding this attack to help implement better protections and support for vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the Ajax community stands firm against the threats of intolerance and violence, vowing to uplift and protect all its members, especially those who might feel unsafe or marginalized. As the investigation proceeds, many hope for justice and healing for the victim and the broader community affected by this shocking event.
