Full Breakdown
Car Ramming Incident at Chabad Lubavitch Headquarters Investigated as Hate Crime
1/29/2026, 10:33:31 PM
Incident Overview
On January 28, 2026, a driver crashed a grey Honda sedan into the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, multiple times, prompting a hate crime investigation. The incident occurred around 8:45 p.m. as congregants gathered for evening prayers, coinciding with a significant Chabad holiday marking the 75th anniversary of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson's leadership. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the driver was quickly apprehended by police officers stationed at the site.
Details of the Incident
According to New York Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the vehicle struck the building's rear door at least four times before reversing and hitting it again. Video footage captured the chaotic scene, showing bystanders reacting with alarm as the driver exited the vehicle and claimed, “It slipped.” The NYPD bomb squad conducted a sweep of the car, finding no explosives or weapons. The driver, identified as Dan Sohail, 36, from Carteret, New Jersey, was taken into custody, although no charges had been announced at the time of reporting.
Official Responses
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani described the incident as "deeply alarming," emphasizing the historical significance of the Chabad headquarters to the Jewish community. He stated, “Any threat to a Jewish institution or place of worship must be taken seriously. Antisemitism has no place in our city.” New York Attorney General Letitia James also expressed her concern, affirming that her office would collaborate with the NYPD on the investigation. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) condemned the incident, highlighting the building's importance as a symbol of Judaism worldwide.
Community Reaction
Local residents and community leaders expressed their distress over the event. Motti Seligson, a spokesperson for Chabad Lubavitch, noted that the headquarters is a beloved symbol of Judaism and a central hub for followers globally. Witnesses reported feeling terrified, with one local resident stating, “It’s definitely not something that should be happening, but it reminds us we have to be strong.” The incident has heightened concerns about rising antisemitism, particularly in light of recent hate crimes against Jewish communities in the United States.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the NYPD is treating the incident as a potential hate crime, the driver has claimed that the crashes were accidental due to a mechanical issue. This discrepancy raises questions about the driver's intent and mental state, which authorities are still investigating. Additionally, some reports suggest that the driver had previously been involved in incidents at local synagogues, although this information has not been confirmed by police.
What's Next
In response to the incident, the NYPD has significantly increased security around houses of worship across New York City. Specialized patrols and counter-terrorism resources will be deployed where necessary. The investigation into the driver's motives and background continues, with community leaders urging for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding this alarming event.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is deeply alarming, especially given the deep meaning and history of the institution to so many in New York and around the world,” — Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City
- “Antisemitism has no place in our city, and violence or intimidation against Jewish New Yorkers is unacceptable.” — Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City
- “We are deeply disturbed by reports of an incident that occurred tonight in Brooklyn.” — Anti-Defamation League of New York and New Jersey
- “This was a holiday — a Chabad holiday — and there were thousands of individuals who came to 770 Eastern Parkway, the headquarters, all over the world.” — Letitia James, New York Attorney General
