A Random Assault on a New Jersey Rabbi Shakes Community

In the tranquil suburbs of Bergenfield, New Jersey, a seemingly peaceful day took an unsettling turn when Rabbi Avraham Wein experienced a sudden and unexpected assault. This alarming incident occurred just as the Jewish community was preparing to celebrate Sukkot, one of Judaism’s most joyful and significant holidays.

The attack unfolded on a Sunday afternoon, as Rabbi Wein, assistant rabbi at Congregation Keter Torah, found himself targeted outside his home. The assailant, identified as Jeffrey Zicchinella, 40, reportedly approached the Rabbi without any prior exchange of words before striking him unexpectedly. A vigilant resident nearby quickly intervened, providing aid to both the Rabbi and the helper who had suffered minor injuries.

The Bergenfield Police Department, led by Chief Mustafa Rabboh, promptly launched an investigation in collaboration with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. It was determined that this act did not stem from bias or hate but rather appeared as a random act of violence devoid of racial, religious, or ethnic motivations. This conclusion came amid a concerning rise in antisemitic incidents both domestically and internationally.

The incident resonates deeply within the Jewish community, occurring just before Sukkot—a time synonymous with joy and gratitude, yet shadowed by recent acts of aggression toward Jewish individuals worldwide. For instance, only days earlier, Manchester witnessed a harrowing attack during Yom Kippur, underscoring global tensions and the urgency for vigilance.

In response to this unsettling event, Mayor Arvin Amatorio and Chief Rabboh emphasized their commitment to safety and unity. Extra patrols were dispatched around homes and synagogues as an added precautionary measure, reflecting a proactive stance against violence in any form. The community’s strength and cohesion have been pivotal in navigating these challenges, reinforcing the message that such acts of hostility are intolerable.

Jeffrey Zicchinella has since been charged with two counts of simple assault and is detained at Bergen County Jail pending further legal proceedings. Despite the unsettling nature of this event, the collective spirit of Bergenfield’s residents serves as a beacon of resilience and solidarity in times of adversity.

This incident stands not only as a reminder of the fragility of peace but also as a testament to the enduring strength and unity within communities that reject violence and prejudice in all its forms. As they stand united against such acts, this community reaffirms its commitment to safety, understanding, and mutual respect for all its members.

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