In a shocking incident outside a Brooklyn Jewish school on Wednesday, May 29, an attempt to mow down students and a rabbi with a car was thwarted. The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Asghar Ali, a Pakistani immigrant livery cab driver, was heard shouting, “I’m gonna kill all the Jews” during the horrifying antisemitic attack.
According to reports, Ali targeted Orthodox students and a rabbi near the Mesivta Nachlas Yakov School. Fortunately, the victims managed to escape to safety inside the building, and none were harmed. However, the incident has raised serious concerns and is being investigated by the NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force.
Ali, who has a history of mental illness, is facing multiple charges including attempted murder, attempted assault, and hate crimes charges. Despite the alarming nature of the attack, authorities do not believe it to be terror-related or linked to any online radical groups.
Eyewitnesses described the chaos as Ali drove toward students while yelling threats. Rabbi Twersky, who witnessed the incident, expressed concern for the safety of the students. “I’m much more scared than they are — their adrenaline is up,” he remarked.
Following the incident, Ali fled the scene but was later apprehended by members of the Shomrim Safety Patrol, who alerted the NYPD. Bob Moskowitz, executive coordinator of the patrol, emphasized the importance of apprehending Ali, especially in the current climate of heightened antisemitism.
Ali, who has been living in the US for over two decades, has a history of previous arrests, including one for false personation. Law enforcement sources have described him as emotionally disturbed.
The incident has sparked outrage and renewed discussions about combating antisemitism and ensuring the safety of religious institutions and communities. Authorities are continuing to investigate the motives behind the attack while reassuring residents of increased vigilance and security measures.
Sources By Agencies
