Man Arrested for Ramming Car into Brooklyn Synagogue in Apparent Hate Crime

Disturbing video shows suspect repeatedly smashing his vehicle into the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:47am

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A man has been arrested for ramming his car into a synagogue in Brooklyn, New York, in what appears to be a hate crime attack. Disturbing video footage shows the suspect repeatedly smashing his Honda Sedan into the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters building during a holy celebration, knocking the doors completely off their hinges.

Why it matters

This incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of religious institutions, particularly Jewish synagogues, which have faced a rise in antisemitic attacks and vandalism in recent years. The attack on a place of worship during a religious observance also highlights the need for greater efforts to combat hate crimes and protect vulnerable communities.

The details

According to the New York Police Department, officers responded to the synagogue around 8:45 pm on Wednesday after receiving reports of the incident. They found the suspect's car partially inside the building's side entrance. Video footage shows the man exiting the vehicle and yelling at a Jewish man nearby. Witnesses say they recognized the suspect, who had previously been spotted outside the synagogue asking for "spiritual guidance" and had been the subject of prior police calls.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday evening around 8:45 pm.

The players

New York Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the suspect.

Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters

The synagogue that was targeted in the apparent hate crime attack.

Jessica Tisch

The New York Police Department Commissioner who provided details about the incident in a press conference.

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What’s next

The suspect is currently in police custody, and authorities are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime. The judge will decide on the suspect's bail status in the coming days.

The takeaway

This attack on a synagogue during a religious observance is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitism and the need for continued vigilance and action to protect houses of worship and vulnerable communities from hate-motivated violence.