At least two Canadians are among the 45 killed in a stampede during Lag BaOmer celebrations at Mount Meron in northern Israel.

The Consulate General of Israel in Montreal identified one as Shraga Gestetner, who was born in Montreal but lived most recently near Monsey, New York.

The other has been identified on social media as Dovi Steinmetz.

Their deaths prompted an outpouring of grief from the local community.

”We are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life at Mt. Meron in Israel during what should have been a joyous celebration of Lag BaOmer,” said Nikki Holland, president of the Jewish Federations of Canada-UIA.

Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante shared her condolences on Twitter.

”We are wholeheartedly with the Jewish community of Montreal.  Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.”

According to witnesses, the stampede began when large numbers of people trying to leave through a narrow, tunnel-like passage, began falling as they descended slippery metal stairs.