Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) condemned the cowardly attack last night on an innocent Jewish student which occurred at Chabad headquarters at 770 Eastern Parkway in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, New York. The attacker entered 770 where he stabbed the 22-year-old Israeli yeshiva student in the neck. The student was transported by Hatzolah to the hospital in stable condition where he is now conscious and alert. Police shot and killed the attacker, who lunged at them with a knife after they attempted to arrest him.

“There are not words strong enough to condemn this despicable act,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “A guy walked into 770 wielding a knife where hundreds of people were studying and praying and stabbed a student in the neck. It is only by the grace of G-d that this young man lived.

“I’m told that the attacker came earlier that evening, too—he was stalking the scene. Thank G-d he didn’t inflict more harm nor do more damage to more people.

“The entire Jewish community is impacted by these cruel and senseless attacks. How can we help but be reminded of the recent, horrible tragedy in Har Nof, which left five innocent people dead?

“While we don’t have a precise motive yet in last night’s contemptible attack, one thing is clear—we need greater security for our Jewish institutions.”

Hikind expressed his appreciation to the NYPD and Hatzolah for their quick response. “We are fortunate to have the NYPD and Hatzolah. Our police and our volunteer groups stand vigilant. But we must all remain alert.” Hikind urged the public to pray for the complete recovery of Levi Yitzchok ben Raizel, the young rabbinic student, from Beitar Illit in western Gush Etzion, now in stable condition but still in need of prayers at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn.

(YWN Desk – NYC)