London

Downtown storefronts hit with anti-Semitic graffiti

Storefront windows in London's downtown were vandalized with anti-Semitic graffiti in recent days, prompting police to launch an investigation.

Mayor calls this a grotesque act. Police chief says this is an 'active' investigation

A business owner on Carling Street in downtown London was met with this image on the front door. (Amanda Margison/ CBC London )

Storefront windows in London's downtown were vandalized with anti-Semitic graffiti in recent days, prompting police to launch an investigation and the mayor to condemn the act.

Swastikas and other symbols were spray painted onto windows and doors on Carling Street, a tiny road between Richmond and Talbot streets. 

Some of the storefronts appeared to be empty and one was for lease. . 

London police said Tuesday they had received calls about property damage and were investigating. Later, Police Chief Steve Williams made an appeal on social media for public information. 

A variety of symbols were spray painted on this second doorway window of a business on Carling Street. (Amanda Margison/CBC London )

"We are actively investigating. We strongly condemn this hateful and hurtful act and appeal to anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers," Williams said on Twitter. 

Mayor Ed Holder pointed to International Holocaust Remembrance Day which was marked last week. 

"The grotesque acts referenced below demonstrate why such occasions are as relevant as ever, including here in #LdnOnt," the mayor wrote on Twitter Tuesday night.

"We stand in solidarity with our Jewish friends, neighbours, and colleagues - now and for always," Holder added.