Man with Chabad Ties Rams Car Into NYC Jewish Site

Police say the 36-year-old suspect had recently tried to connect with the Hasidic community.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 10:47pm

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A 36-year-old man named Dan Sohail has been charged with attempted assault as a hate crime after he repeatedly rammed his car into the Chabad Lubavitch world headquarters in New York City. Police say Sohail had recently been trying to connect with the Hasidic Jewish community and was recorded on video enthusiastically dancing with congregants during a recent visit to the site.

Why it matters

The incident occurred on the 75th anniversary of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson becoming the leader of the Lubavitch movement, prompting immediate concern in the city. Authorities have increased security around houses of worship across New York in response.

The details

Sohail told police he lost control of his car because he was wearing "clunky boots," though police say he had removed several blockades and cleared snow away from a sidewalk before driving into the building. No one was injured and no weapons were found in Sohail's car, but some of the building's doors were damaged.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, January 29, 2026.
  • Sohail had attended a social gathering at the Chabad Lubavitch headquarters earlier this month.

The players

Dan Sohail

A 36-year-old man who has been charged with attempted assault as a hate crime for ramming his car into the Chabad Lubavitch world headquarters in New York City.

Chabad Lubavitch

A Hasidic Jewish organization and the headquarters that was targeted in the incident.

Joseph Kenny

The New York Police Department Chief of Detectives.

Zohran Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City.

Jessica Tisch

The New York City Police Commissioner.

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What they’re saying

“We believe that he was in Brooklyn last night to continue this attempt to connect with the Lubavitch Jewish community.”

— Joseph Kenny, New York Police Department Chief of Detectives

“This is deeply alarming, especially given the deep meaning and the history of the institution to so many in New York and around the world. And on today of all days.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Dan Sohail out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and security around houses of worship, especially those with deep cultural and historical significance to the community. It also raises questions about mental health support and outreach to those seeking spiritual guidance.