A 58-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to run over Jewish students and a rabbi outside a Yeshiva in Brooklyn, New York, on Wednesday morning. The incident was captured on surveillance video and authorities are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime.
In a chilling incident that has raised concerns about rising antisemitism, a 58-year-old man has been apprehended after allegedly driving a vehicle onto a sidewalk in an apparent attempt to run over Jewish students and a rabbi outside a Yeshiva in Brooklyn. The incident unfolded on Wednesday morning, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a swift response by the New York Police Department (NYPD).
According to police reports, the incident occurred shortly before 11:30 a.m. on Glenwood Road in the Canarsie neighborhood. The suspect, identified only as a 58-year-old male, was driving a white 2011 Ford Crown Victoria when he allegedly drove onto the sidewalk in an attempt to target pedestrians.
Surveillance footage from security cameras outside the Yeshiva captured the harrowing incident, showing the suspect attempting to run over several students and a rabbi standing on the sidewalk. Miraculously, none of the individuals were injured.
The NYPD responded promptly to reports of the incident and launched a manhunt for the suspect. The suspect fled the scene, but police were able to locate and apprehend him shortly afterward. The suspect's name and further details have not yet been released by the authorities.
The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is assisting in the investigation, as the incident is being treated as a potential hate crime. The investigation is ongoing, and the FBI is working closely with the NYPD to determine the suspect's motives and identify any potential accomplices.
The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from community leaders and elected officials. Mayor Bill de Blasio called the attack "a despicable act of hate" and vowed to bring the perpetrator to justice. The Israeli Consulate in New York also issued a statement, expressing its "deep concern" and solidarity with the Jewish community.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has tracked a significant rise in antisemitic incidents in recent months, particularly on college campuses. The ADL has urged authorities to take swift action against perpetrators and to ensure that campuses are safe and inclusive for Jewish students.
The incident in Brooklyn has sent shockwaves through the Jewish community, raising concerns about their safety and well-being. It serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitism and the need for vigilance in combating hate crimes.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and contact the NYPD or the FBI. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.
