A Rabbi’s Assault in New Jersey Sparks Community Solidarity

In the serene suburb of Bergenfield, New Jersey, a distressing incident shook the local Jewish community. On Sunday afternoon, just before the start of Sukkot—a major Jewish holiday—Rabbi Avraham Wein was unexpectedly attacked near his home. This assault, which took place shortly after 2 p.m., was not an isolated act of violence with religious or racial motives but rather a random act of aggression that prompted a swift and unified community response.

The assailant, identified as Jeffrey Zicchinella, aged 40, left his car to confront Rabbi Wein. Fortunately, a nearby resident intervened, assisting the rabbi who suffered minor injuries. The incident was promptly addressed by local law enforcement; Bergenfield Police Chief Mustafa Rabboh confirmed that despite the gravity of the situation, there were no exchanges between Zicchinella and the rabbi prior to the assault, nor any indications that it was motivated by bias or prejudice.

Following a thorough investigation in collaboration with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, authorities concluded that this act did not qualify as a hate crime. This finding came amidst a global climate of heightened tension and increasing antisemitic incidents worldwide. Just days before this event, tragic violence unfolded at a synagogue in Manchester, England, underscoring the broader context of rising tensions affecting Jewish communities globally.

In response to the attack, additional police patrols were deployed around synagogues and residences as an extra measure of protection. Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio expressed strong disapproval of such acts of violence, emphasizing the community’s resilience and solidarity in facing adversity together.

As a precautionary step, Zicchinella was detained on charges of simple assault and is currently held at the Bergen County Jail. The authorities remain committed to ensuring safety and maintaining peace within the community as they continue their investigation.

This incident serves not only as a reminder of the need for vigilance but also as a testament to the strength and unity that define Bergenfield’s residents in times of crisis. It underscores a collective commitment to tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect across diverse communities. Amidst rising global tensions, such solidarity provides hope and resilience, reinforcing the values cherished by the community.

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New Jersey Rabbi Assaulted in Random Attack Outside His Home on Eve of Jewish Holiday