Assailant disrupts Shabbat service at NYC synagogue, attacks congregant

New York police reported that a man disrupted Shabbat services at Central Synagogue in Manhattan on Friday night, attacking a congregant and a member of the security team. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that as security escorted the man out, he struck a congregant, damaged property, and headbutted a security guard. The suspect, identified as 46-year-old Larry Montes from the Bronx, has been charged with multiple counts, including assault and criminal mischief as hate crimes. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani condemned the act as "despicable" and pledged to ensure the safety of Jewish New Yorkers. The incident follows repeated warnings from Jewish leaders regarding rising antisemitism in the city. According to official data, Jews are the primary target of hate crimes in New York City, accounting for 70% of such incidents last month despite representing only about 10% of the population.