Full Breakdown
Stabbing Incident in Crown Heights Investigated as Hate Crime
12/23/2025, 7:58:30 AM
Overview of the Incident
On December 16, 2025, a 35-year-old Jewish man, Elias Rosner, was stabbed in the chest outside a Lubavitch Hasidic temple in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The alleged assailant, 23-year-old Armani Charles, reportedly boasted about wanting to "kill a Jew" while making antisemitic remarks before the attack. Following a week-long manhunt, Charles was arrested and charged with attempted assault, assault, aggravated harassment, and menacing, all categorized as hate crimes.
Details of the Attack
The incident occurred as Rosner was leaving the synagogue. He overheard Charles making violent threats and brandishing a knife. Rosner, who has martial arts training, attempted to confront Charles, leading to a physical altercation where he was stabbed just centimeters from his heart. Despite his injuries, Rosner pursued Charles for a short distance before collapsing. He was treated at Kings County Hospital and released the following day.
Context of Antisemitic Violence
This stabbing is part of a broader trend of rising antisemitic incidents in the United States. According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), approximately 305 of the 550 hate crimes reported in 2025 targeted Jewish individuals or properties. This statistic reflects a concerning pattern, as antisemitic hate crimes have surged since 2021, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, particularly following the Israel-Hamas War that began in October 2022.
Official Responses
New York City Mayor Eric Adams condemned the attack, stating that "evil, hateful, antisemitic violence" must end. He emphasized the city's commitment to combating hate and ensuring the safety of its residents. In response to the incident, the NYPD deployed additional officers to Crown Heights, a historically Jewish neighborhood, to enhance security and address community concerns.
