NYPD seeks public help in identifying vandal who painted swastikas at a yeshiva and Jewish cemetery post-election.
Authorities in Brooklyn are seeking public assistance in identifying a suspect involved in the vandalism of a prominent Jewish educational institution and cemetery. Surveillance footage released by the New York Police Department (NYPD) shows a cyclist, dressed in a fedora and black clothing, spray-painting swastikas at the Magen David Yeshivah and Washington Cemetery shortly after the recent mayoral election.
The incidents occurred in the early hours of November 5. The first reported act of vandalism took place around 6 a.m. when the suspect approached the Magen David Yeshivah, located at the intersection of McDonald Avenue and Avenue T in the Gravesend neighborhood. The individual defaced the building with two red-painted swastikas on a pillar and a window, along with two additional symbols resembling “half swastikas.” An on-site security guard alerted the authorities approximately 30 minutes later.
In a separate incident around 9:50 a.m., the same suspect targeted Washington Cemetery, approximately a mile and a half away. There, he spray-painted swastikas on nearby construction barriers before fleeing the scene on his bicycle. Workers at the cemetery discovered the graffiti shortly before 10 a.m.
The incidents have sparked a significant response from local officials. Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the acts of vandalism during a press conference, characterizing them as a brazen attack on community values and sacred spaces. She emphasized the cruelty and insensitivity of the actions, especially considering the timing of the incidents, coinciding with the learning day for students ranging from preschool to 12th grade.
As the investigation unfolds, the NYPD’s Hate Crime Task Force has taken lead responsibility, emphasizing the seriousness of such hate-filled actions. The timing of this display of antisemitism is particularly notable, occurring just hours after Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor, which has drawn significant public attention. Mamdani, who has faced criticism for prior statements perceived as antisemitic, publicly denounced the vandalism, affirming his commitment to combatting antisemitism in the city.
Citizens with any information related to these incidents are urged to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. The community continues to rally for justice and support for those impacted by this troubling display of hatred.
