Overview
- A 46-year-old man identified as Larry Montes entered Central Synagogue during Shabbat services, was escorted out by security and then struck a congregant, damaged property and assaulted a security officer, according to police reports and video of the incident.
- An NYPD sergeant working a paid security detail at the synagogue took Montes into custody, and prosecutors have filed multiple charges that include assault and criminal mischief as hate crimes.
- The injured congregant, a 63-year-old woman, was treated at the scene for a cut lip and arm injuries and no one was reported seriously hurt after the Friday night disturbance.
- Video from the synagogue’s livestream circulated widely, prompting an increased police presence at services the following day and public condemnations from city and state leaders.
- Investigators with the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force and the Manhattan DA are still developing the record on motive while some reports note prior mental-health and arrest history, a fact that officials say does not replace a formal finding on intent.