Vehicle Strikes Chabad-Lubavitch Headquarters in Brooklyn, Driver Arrested
A vehicle struck the Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters at 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn's Crown Heights neighborhood on Wednesday evening, resulting in the driver's arrest. The New York City Police Department (NYPD) is investigating the incident as a possible hate crime. No injuries were reported, and authorities have confirmed that no explosives were found in the vehicle.
Incident Details
The event occurred around 8:45 p.m. on Wednesday evening. NYPD officers, who maintain a consistent presence at the location, observed a grey Honda with New Jersey license plates strike a rear door of a building within the complex.
The vehicle then reversed and struck the door multiple additional times.
Upon exiting the vehicle, the driver reportedly stated, "It slipped," and mentioned attempting to park to law enforcement officers. Officers subsequently ordered the driver out of the vehicle and took them into custody. Chabad Lubavitch spokesperson Motti Seligson confirmed that some doors sustained damage during the incident. No individuals were reported injured.
Investigation
The New York Police Department is investigating the incident as a possible hate crime, with the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force leading the inquiry.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the hate crime investigation but noted it was too early to comment on the driver's motives or mental state.
The NYPD Bomb Squad conducted a sweep of the vehicle, finding no explosives or dangerous devices. As of the latest reports, no charges have been filed. The circumstances surrounding the incident, including the driver's motive, remain under investigation.
Context of the Site and Timing
The Chabad-Lubavitch World Headquarters, commonly referred to as 770, is a significant site for the Hasidic Jewish community. It serves as a synagogue, the worldwide Chabad Headquarters, and a globally recognized symbol of Judaism. The Gothic Revival facade building receives thousands of visitors annually.
The incident occurred while people were gathered for prayer, coinciding with a Chabad holiday and the 75th anniversary of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson becoming the leader of the Lubavitch movement. The location has a history of heightened security concerns, having been involved in the Crown Heights riots in 1991 and a stabbing incident involving a rabbinical student in 2014.
Official Statements
Several officials and organizations have issued statements regarding the incident:
- NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that officers on detail observed the car's actions and confirmed the incident is being investigated as a possible hate crime.
- New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani characterized the crash as "intentional" and "deeply alarming," stating that antisemitism is unacceptable in the city.
- New York Attorney General Letitia James noted that the incident occurred during a Chabad holiday when thousands of people from around the world were gathered at the headquarters.
- Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez confirmed his office is collaborating with the NYPD to ensure justice and community safety.
- The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) of New York and New Jersey released a statement highlighting the building's role as a synagogue, the worldwide Chabad Headquarters, and a significant symbol of Judaism. The ADL confirmed it is in contact with law enforcement and local partners.