The stabbing of a Jewish woman in broad daylight at an Ottawa grocery store has prompted public officials including the city's mayor, Ontario's premier and the prime minister to condemn what they're calling a disturbing act of hate-motivated violence in the community.

The unprovoked attack happened Wednesday afternoon at a Loblaws store on Baseline Road. The victim, in her 70s, was critically injured.

Joseph Rooke, 71, of Cornwall, Ont., was arrested at the scene and charged with aggravated assault and possession of a dangerous weapon, police said. Rooke appeared in court Thursday and is scheduled to return Sept. 2.

"After a thorough investigation, this incident is considered a hate-motivated crime," the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) confirmed Friday afternoon.

"OPS is in contact with le

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