Rabbi Assaulted in Bergenfield, NJ; Attacker Not Charged with Hate Crime

Rabbi Attacked in Bergenfield

• ⚡ A rabbi was assaulted in front of his home in Bergenfield, New Jersey, on Sunday.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The rabbi was attacked while wearing a yarmulke, and witnesses stated he is an "awesome individual" with a "lovely family."

Neighbor Intervenes, Suspect Apprehended

• 🤝 A neighbor intervened to stop the assault by tackling the attacker.
• 🚓 Police took the suspect into custody at the scene.

Motive and Charges

• ❓ Investigators confirmed the incident did not meet the criteria for a bias or hate crime under state law.
• 🎯 The attack is being treated as a random act, not motivated by bias.
• ⚖️ The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Jeffrey Zicinella of Ridgefield Park, was charged with assault.

Community Response and Safety Measures

• 😔 Neighbors expressed shock and dismay, describing Bergenfield as a "welcoming and diverse safe community."
• 🩹 The rabbi and the neighbor who intervened suffered minor injuries.
• 👮‍♂️ While police stated there is no ongoing threat, extra patrols will be deployed in neighborhoods and near synagogues as a precaution.