A Muslim woman is speaking out after a deeply disturbing attack at the Ajax Public Library left her fearful and shaken. The incident occurred on Saturday, March 22, when the woman—who wears a hijab—was allegedly assaulted while studying, in what the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) is calling a potential hate crime.
According to Durham Regional Police, the woman was seated in the main branch of the library when she was approached by a 25-year-old female suspect who began yelling profanities and throwing objects at her. The suspect allegedly attempted to forcibly remove the woman’s hijab, poured an unknown liquid on it, and then attempted to set it on fire using a lighter.
The victim screamed for help, prompting immediate intervention by library security. The suspect fled the scene but was located and arrested several hours later. She has been identified as Kaley-Ann Freier of Ajax, and is facing two counts of assault with a weapon and three counts of failing to comply with a probation order. Freier was held for a bail hearing.
In a statement delivered today by NCCM Advocacy Officer Fatema Abdalla, the victim, whose name has not been released, described her current state as one of ongoing fear and trauma.
“Since that day, I haven’t been able to sleep properly. Every time I close my eyes, the incident replays over and over again. I toss and turn, gripped by my fear,” she wrote. “I am afraid for myself and for my daughters who also wear the hijab. I no longer feel safe in public spaces.”
The NCCM is urging authorities to investigate the attack as a hate-motivated crime, highlighting the growing number of Islamophobic incidents across the country.
“This horrific act of violence must be treated with the seriousness it deserves,” said Abdalla. “No one should fear for their safety while simply studying in a public space. We must ensure Muslim women in our communities are safe, supported, and protected.”
Municipal officials in Ajax have condemned the incident, stating that “acts of hate and violence will not be tolerated in any town facility or public space.”
Freier has a prior record; in October 2024, she was arrested for allegedly wielding a machete at a plaza near the same library. She was charged with possession of a dangerous weapon and released on conditions.
Police are continuing their investigation. Anyone with information related to the March 22 incident is urged to contact Detective Goldenberg at the West Division Criminal Investigation Bureau by calling 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2529. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca.