Rabbi Assaulted in New Jersey Before Jewish Holiday
On the afternoon of October 5th, just hours before the start of Sukkot, Rabbi Avraham Wein was assaulted outside his home in Bergenfield, New Jersey. The incident, which has shaken the local Jewish community, is currently being investigated as both a violent crime and a potential hate crime. The attack occurred during a time when Jewish communities across the country have been experiencing heightened concerns about antisemitism. Rabbi Wein, who serves as an assistant at Congregation Keter Torah in Teaneck, was fortunately not left to face his attacker alone – a neighbor witnessed the assault and quickly intervened, restraining the suspect until police arrived on the scene.
According to Bergenfield police, the suspect, identified as 40-year-old Jeffrey Zicchinella of Ridgefield Park (who may also go by Jeffrey Vangoldren), was driving through Sussex Road around 2 p.m. when he allegedly stopped his vehicle, exited, and attacked the rabbi without provocation. The quick response from both the neighbor and local law enforcement resulted in Zicchinella’s immediate arrest. He now faces two counts of simple assault and has been remanded to the Bergen County Jail. The Bergenfield Police Department stated they are working closely with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office to determine whether the attack was bias-motivated, emphasizing their commitment to thoroughly investigating all potential hate crimes and ensuring community safety.
The local response to the incident has been swift and resolute. Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio publicly condemned the attack, calling it “a shameful act that has no place in Bergenfield” and making it clear that violence against any resident would not be tolerated under any circumstances. His statement reflected the community’s solidarity with Rabbi Wein and the broader Jewish community during this unsettling time. Police Chief Mustafa Rabboh ordered increased patrols around synagogues and residential neighborhoods as a precautionary measure, though preliminary findings suggest this may have been an isolated incident rather than part of a broader threat to the community.
This attack in New Jersey comes amid a concerning rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States. From university campuses to urban centers, Jewish Americans have reported feeling increasingly targeted, particularly following periods of heightened tension in the Middle East. The timing of the attack – just before Sukkot, one of Judaism’s most important holidays – adds another troubling dimension to the incident. Sukkot is a time of celebration and community gathering for Jewish families, making the assault particularly disturbing as it occurred when Rabbi Wein should have been preparing for this meaningful religious observance rather than dealing with the trauma of a violent attack.
While authorities continue their investigation, the community has rallied around Rabbi Wein. A spokesperson for his synagogue expressed gratitude that the rabbi was safe and acknowledged the outpouring of concern and support from the community. The spokesperson noted, “For legal and privacy reasons, there is no more information to be shared at this time,” but added, “We are thankful he is safe and deeply appreciative of the concern and support shown by our TABC community.” This response highlights how communities often come together in the aftermath of such disturbing events, offering comfort and solidarity to those affected while reaffirming their commitment to standing against hatred and intolerance.
The Bergenfield Police Department has emphasized that this remains an ongoing investigation, with officers working diligently to understand all aspects of the incident. “We take all reports of bias-motivated or hate-related incidents seriously and remain dedicated to ensuring that everyone in our borough feels safe and respected,” they stated on social media. This commitment to thorough investigation and transparent communication represents the essential role that local law enforcement plays in addressing potential hate crimes. As the investigation continues, both Jewish and non-Jewish residents of Bergenfield alike will be watching closely, hoping for justice and reassurance that their community remains a safe place for people of all faiths and backgrounds.
