Woman Charged After Attempted Hijab Burning in Ajax Library
A 25-year-old woman from Ajax faces multiple charges following what police describe as a possible hate-motivated assault at a local library. The incident occurred on March 22, 2025, at the Ajax Library Main Branch on Harwood Avenue. Durham Regional Police say the victim, who was studying at the time, was approached and assaulted without provocation.
What Happened at the Ajax Library?
Details of the Incident
According to police, the suspect:
- Yelled profanities at the victim
- Threw objects at her head
- Tried to remove her hijab
- Poured an unknown liquid on the hijab
- Attempted to set the hijab on fire using a lighter
The victim screamed for help. Library security staff responded quickly and intervened. The suspect fled the scene but was found and arrested a few hours later.
Charges Filed
Police identified the suspect as Kaley-Ann Freier, 25, of Ajax. She faces:
- Two counts of assault with a weapon
- Three counts of failing to comply with a probation order
Freier remains in custody pending a bail hearing. The Crown Attorney’s office is reviewing the case to determine if hate crime charges are warranted.
Community and Political Response
Statements from Local Officials
Ajax Mayor Shaun Collier and Library Board Vice Chair Deborah McDougall Jones condemned the attack. They stressed that all public spaces in Ajax must remain safe and inclusive.
They also highlighted the emotional impact of the attack during Ramadan, a period marked by peace and spiritual reflection in the Muslim community.
National Council of Canadian Muslims Responds
The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) described the incident as disturbing. CEO Stephen Brown called for a thorough investigation and urged leaders to take stronger action against growing Islamophobia in Canada.
“Incidents of Islamophobia have increased exponentially in recent years,” Brown stated.
Legal Considerations and Ongoing Investigation
Under Canadian law, hate crime classification requires consultation with the Crown to determine if legal standards are met. Police confirmed that additional charges are possible depending on the outcome of that review.
Authorities continue to investigate. Durham police urge anyone with information to contact them or submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
Broader Context: Islamophobia in Canada
This case highlights ongoing concerns about religiously motivated violence in public spaces. Community advocates have called on all levels of government to address this trend through education, legislation, and support for victims.
More…
- https://toronto.citynews.ca/2025/03/23/ajax-woman-charged-in-violent-unprovoked-attack-at-public-library
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/local/durham/article/suspect-assaulted-woman-attempted-to-set-her-hijab-on-fire-at-ajax-library-police
- https://www.ajax.ca/en/statement-from-mayor-collier-library-board-chair-regarding-act-of-violence-at-ajax-library.aspx
