Rabbi Attacked in Queens on Holocaust Remembrance Day, Suspect Arrested

Anti-Semitic Attack in Queens

• 🕎 A rabbi was attacked while walking to synagogue in Forest Hills, Queens, by a stranger who yelled anti-Semitic slurs and punched him.
• 🗓️ The assault occurred on Holocaust Remembrance Day, adding a somber layer to the violent incident.
• 🤕 The rabbi sustained cuts, bruises, and a return trip to the doctor, though he is thankful his injuries were not more severe.

Capturing the Assailant

• 📱 Despite being attacked, the rabbi managed to record a 3-second video of his assailant.
• 🤝 This video evidence was crucial in helping the Shamre Queen Safety Patrol and NYPD officers locate and arrest the suspect.
• 🚆 The suspect was apprehended as he was preparing to board a Manhattan-bound train.

Suspect Apprehended and Charged

• 👮 Police arrested Eric Zafrao, 32, in connection with the attack.
• ⚖️ Zafrao has been charged with assault as a hate crime and aggravated harassment as a hate crime.

Community and Official Response

• 🗣️ Elected officials in Queens issued a joint statement condemning the attack and expressing concern over the rise in anti-Semitic incidents.
• 🚨 They emphasized the urgent responsibility to confront hate before it escalates into violence.
• 🤝 Mayor Zoran Mani reached out to the rabbi, assuring him that justice would be served and patrols would be increased.
• 🙏 The rabbi stressed the need to promote light, goodness, and kindness to push away darkness.