Video Shows Man Ramming Chabad Synagogue in Brooklyn

NYPD investigating incident as a possible hate crime, no injuries reported

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:55am

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Disturbing video footage shows a man driving his vehicle repeatedly into the Chabad Lubavitch Headquarters in Brooklyn's Crown Heights neighborhood. The NYPD is investigating the incident as a potential hate crime, though no injuries were reported. The driver was taken into custody at the scene.

Why it matters

The Chabad Lubavitch Headquarters is a significant Jewish institution, serving as both a synagogue and the global headquarters for the Chabad.org website. Any attack on a house of worship or Jewish community center is deeply concerning and raises fears of rising antisemitism in New York City.

The details

The incident occurred on Wednesday when the unidentified driver rammed his 2012 Honda Accord into the front doors of the Eastern Parkway building, then reversed and drove into the building again. Video footage of the incident was posted to the Citizen app. The NYPD's bomb squad investigated the vehicle but found no incendiary devices. Out of an abundance of caution, police have increased security around houses of worship across the five boroughs.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, January 29, 2026.

The players

Zohran Kwame Mamdani

The Mayor of New York City, who visited the scene and condemned the incident as a threat to a Jewish institution that must be taken seriously.

Chabad Lubavitch Headquarters

A significant Jewish institution in Brooklyn's Crown Heights neighborhood, serving as both a synagogue and the global headquarters for the Chabad.org website.

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What they’re saying

“This is deeply alarming, especially given the deep meaning and history of the institution to so many in New York and around the world. Any threat to a Jewish institution or place of worship must be taken seriously. Antisemitism has no place in our city.”

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (Twitter)

“This building is not only a synagogue, but also the worldwide Chabad.org Headquarters and a beloved symbol of Judaism around the world.”

— Anti-Defamation League of New York and New Jersey (Statement)

What’s next

The NYPD is continuing its investigation into the incident and will determine if charges will be filed against the driver. Out of an abundance of caution, police have increased security around houses of worship across New York City.

The takeaway

This disturbing incident highlights the ongoing threat of antisemitism and the need for vigilance in protecting Jewish institutions and places of worship. It serves as a reminder that any attack on a religious community must be taken seriously and swiftly addressed by law enforcement and civic leaders.