New Jersey police have made an arrest following a shocking incident involving a school bus filled with Jewish children. A rock, as large as a baseball, was hurled through a window of the bus, injuring an 8-year-old girl who suffered a fractured skull. The bus was transporting students from Yeshivat Noam back to their school after a visit to the Liberty Science Center when the attack occurred around 2 p.m. on Wednesday.
The accused, Hernando Garciamorales, 40, from Palisades Park, was apprehended in Old Croaker County Park after police tracked him to a campsite. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of a child. This was not an isolated incident… authorities suspect Garciamorales may be linked to similar rock-throwing attacks in Bogota Borough.
The Jewish Federation is closely monitoring the situation, assuring that the injured girl is recovering after undergoing surgery. Teaneck Mayor Mark J. Schwartz commented on the incident, stating, “There’s no indication it’s a bias crime.” He acknowledged the obvious visibility of the Jewish students on the bus but cautioned against jumping to conclusions about antisemitism or racism. “We don’t want to rush to make accusations,” he added, highlighting the sensitivity of the current climate.
The World Jewish Congress expressed its alarm over the attack on social media. “We are horrified by the attack on a school bus carrying New Jersey yeshiva students,” said Phil Rosen, Chair of the World Jewish Congress-American Section. He condemned the act, asserting that throwing stones at vehicles is far from harmless mischief… it’s a violent act that can lead to serious harm. Rosen referenced similar tactics used to terrorize civilians on the roads of Israel, characterizing such actions as intended to instill fear and cause injury.
In response to the incident, Yeshivat Noam is providing support to the students and their families. Rabbi Chaim Hagler, Head of School, stated that the school prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students. “Our focus remains on supporting the injured student and her family, as well as ensuring the emotional health of our entire student body,” he said. The school is working closely with law enforcement to ensure a rigorous investigation into this alarming event.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children in today’s society, challenging communities to confront the specter of violence.
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