New York, NY, December 9, 2014 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed alarm and concern over the early morning stabbing of a yeshiva student from Israel inside a study hall at the Chabad Lubavitch headquarters in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

The assailant was subsequently shot and killed by police. The incident appears to be an isolated event.

Evan R. Bernstein, ADL New York Regional Director, issued the following statement:

We are alarmed and concerned by this senseless attack on a student at a Jewish place of study and worship. We appreciate the NYPD’s investigation into this crime to determine if the attacker’s motivation was driven by anti-Jewish or anti-Israel animus.

This incident serves as a reminder to Jewish institutions – from Federations to synagogues to schools – to always remain vigilant, and consideration must always be given to safety and security.

Our hearts go out to the Crown Heights community and the families affected by this tragedy.

According to ADL’s Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents, New York City experienced 133 incidents including acts of assault, harassment and vandalism in 2013, including 64 in Brooklyn.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.  Follow us on Twitter: @ADL_NY