A frightening incident unfolded at the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn as a man persistently rammed his vehicle into the building during a significant religious celebration. Authorities quickly arrested the 36-year-old suspect from Carteret, New Jersey, who, according to police, is being treated as an emotionally disturbed individual. Witnesses observed the chaotic scene, noting that police were already present, monitoring the event.
Avrohom Pink, a witness, provided vivid details about the attack. He reported, “He’s yelling at the boys to move out of the way as they were standing in the driveway, and then he pulled his car in.” Pink continued, describing how the suspect “started ramming the building… must have done it like five times.” His actions prompted bystanders to run to the parked police unit at the entrance for help. Responding officers acted quickly, detaining the suspect right after he exited the car.
The ramming attack is under investigation by the Department of Justice as a hate crime. This classification underscores the alarming trend of anti-Semitic behavior and violence. Although the suspect claimed his vehicle suffered from “mechanical issues,” multiple witnesses reported his suspicious behavior prior to the attack, leading them to believe he had deliberately targeted the synagogue.
Yaacov Behrman, a spokesperson for the Chabad, voiced deep concern over the incident. He remarked, “This is a very serious incident — it’s very frightening. We know how dangerous it is to be Jewish today worldwide.” His sentiments reflect a growing unease within the Jewish community regarding safety in public spaces. Behrman expressed hope for reassurances from law enforcement about the ongoing safety of the area.
Following the ramming, police increased their presence outside the synagogue, signaling their commitment to ensuring safety during such events. As investigations continue, the incident captures a moment of heightened tension for communities facing the threat of hate-motivated violence.
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