Pakistani immigrant attempts to attack students outside Brooklyn Jewish school, shouting threats against Jewish community

A horrifying antisemitic attack unfolded outside a Brooklyn Jewish school on Wednesday, May 29, when a man attempted to run over a rabbi and Orthodox students with his car. The man, identified as Asghar Ali, a 58-year-old Pakistani immigrant livery cab driver, was heard yelling “I’m gonna kill all the Jews” during the attack.

According to reports, Ali has a history of mental illness, and the incident is currently being investigated by the NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force. Despite facing charges of attempted murder, attempted assault, and hate crimes, authorities do not believe the attack was terror-related or linked to any online radical group.

The terrifying incident took place as Ali drove his white Crown Victoria near the Mesivta Nachlas Yakov School, targeting students dressed in Orthodox garb. He then circled back and aimed his car towards more students and a rabbi, shouting his hateful intentions.

Fortunately, the victims managed to escape unharmed by seeking refuge inside the school building. Rabbi Twersky, who witnessed the chaos, expressed concern for the students’ safety and commended the swift action of the Shomrim Safety Patrol in apprehending Ali.

Ali, who has been living in the US for over two decades, has a history of previous arrests, including one for criminal impersonation. Community members expressed relief at his arrest, emphasizing the importance of ensuring safety in the face of rising antisemitism.