Attack on Central Synagogue in Manhattan

On August 14, 2026, a 46-year-old Bronx resident, Larry Montes, entered Central Synagogue on Lexington Avenue during Shabbat services and disrupted the worship. He struck a 63-year-old female congregant, causing a lip laceration and forearm injuries, head-butted and spat on a 65-year-old security guard, and broke two candlesticks valued at roughly $20,000. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the assailant was escorted out by synagogue security and then taken into custody by an NYPD sergeant. No serious injuries were reported.

YnetNews

New York Governor Kathy Hochul called the incident “appalling.” Commissioner Tisch later noted she had spoken with the synagogue’s rabbi and was relieved that no one was seriously injured. The NYPD increased its presence around the synagogue following the event.

YnetNews

The assault follows a nationwide rise in antisemitic incidents. A report by the Anti-Defamation League documented a record number of such attacks in the United States the previous year, including the first fatality since 2022. Tensions have been noted between Mayor Mamdani and some Jewish community leaders over the mayor’s criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, prompting private meetings where leaders urged a softer rhetorical tone to protect community safety.

CNN

• Assault charges: two counts of assault as a hate crime and one count of criminal mischief as a hate crime.

New York Times

• Victims: a 63-year-old woman (lip cut, forearm bruising) and a 65-year-old security guard (head-butt, spitting).

New York Times

• Property damage: two candlesticks valued at approximately $20,000.

YnetNews

• “I have spoken with the rabbi of the synagogue, and I’m relieved that no one was seriously injured. Those who were hurt were evaluated at the scene and are doing well,” — Jessica Tisch, said commissioner

CNN

• “There are no known additional threats at this time,” — Jessica Tisch, said commissioner

YnetNews