Police are searching for an unknown man wearing a ski mask who threw a lit Molotov cocktail at Temple Ner Tamid in Bloomfield (Essex County).
The incident took place at 3:20 AM Sunday. The cocktail hit the front door, but thankfully no damage was reported. The safety systems the Congregation had had a significant impact on thwarting the arson.
The Shul is currently working with local officials, local and state police, and the FBI to investigate and help speed the catching of the antisemite.
“We have and will continue to do everything in our power to keep our community safe. Everything worked as it should. Our cameras recorded the incident, and our shatter-resistant doors were held. But what I cannot do, is convince our community not to grow despondent. There is hate everywhere, and hate wins when we let it penetrate,” Rabbi Marc Katz said.
NEW TONIGHT: #Bloomfield police are probing an attempted #arson involving a masked man who threw a Molotov cocktail at Temple Ner Tamid. https://t.co/GLh0kgN0ad pic.twitter.com/cFTklXBCT7
— News12NJ (@News12NJ) January 29, 2023
We are aware of an attempted arson attack on a temple in Bloomfield NJ earlier this morning. As a result we have increased our patrols of our temples and will continue to do so until more information is obtained. If you see anything suspicious, please call us immediately.
— livingston police (@livingstonalert) January 29, 2023
Let me be clear: there is no place for violence or hate in New Jersey and I strongly condemn these acts.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) January 29, 2023
