A Bronx resident faces hate crime charges after an incident at a Manhattan synagogue during Friday’s Shabbat service. Larry Montes, 46, was arrested following allegations of disrupting the service, assaulting a congregant, and attacking a security officer, as stated by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
New York City hosts the largest Jewish urban population outside Israel. Antisemitism persists as the most reported bias category in the city, with 330 incidents reported last year, accounting for 57% of all suspected hate crimes, according to NYPD data.
The Incident
The disruption began around 6:10 p.m. on Friday. As Central Synagogue security staff attempted to lead Montes out, he allegedly struck a congregant, damaged property, and assaulted a security team member. An NYPD sergeant quickly intervened to detain the suspect. No further threats are known, but additional police resources were deployed.
An NYPD spokesperson mentioned a 63-year-old woman endured a minor lip cut and forearm injuries during the altercation. Montes, from the Grand Concourse area, faces over a dozen charges, including four counts of assault as a hate crime, criminal mischief as a hate crime, and disruption of a religious service.
Central Synagogue expressed gratitude on Facebook for the support received after the event and praised their security team and law enforcement.
Witness Accounts and Aftermath
Witnesses described experiencing fear in the synagogue. Video footage from the synagogue’s livestream revealed congregants reacting in panic as a security guard subdued the suspect. Susan Roane, a congregant, reported hearing loud noises and fearing gunfire.
Another congregant, Arlynn Greenbaum, described Montes as unarmed but expressing hate. Services resumed shortly after the arrest.
Officials Condemn the Attack
Commissioner Tisch communicated with the synagogue’s rabbi, expressing relief over the absence of severe injuries. Governor Kathy Hochul labeled the attack “appalling,” affirming that Jewish New Yorkers should worship without fear. She appreciated the suspect’s arrest and the lack of serious harm.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the violence, emphasizing the right to practice religion without fear. He pledged to ensure Jewish New Yorkers’ safety. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer acknowledged the reality of antisemitism and lauded the NYPD for their swift response. Schumer urged unity to eliminate antisemitic acts and ensure safe worship for everyone.