Lakewood, a township located in Ocean County, New Jersey is the site of an investigation after an explosive device was thrown out of a vehicle and detonated near a synagogue. The incident occurred on May 20, a Saturday, moments after the end of the Sabbath at around 9:30 PM on Squankum Road near Shafto Road.
An individual living in the adjacent neighbourhood informed the police of the occurrence. The witness stated that they had seen two pickup trucks travelling at a slow pace before a loud boom rang out, and they could see smoke emanating from the same location. The resident also noted that two individuals had been walking around 50-100 feet from the incident.
According to a press release from the Lakewood Township Police, the witness reported that the trucks were travelling at a snail’s pace in the opposite direction before a sudden U-turn and travelling South. The trail led to a small, wooded area, with the individual throwing a lit explosive device before the detonation.
Moreover, a home security system in the area captured an image of the two trucks travelling in tandem. The image was captured while the vehicles were about 200 yards away.
This area is known for being the location of an Orthodox Jewish community, raising concerns. While this is not confirmed as a hate crime, it has sparked concern in the community. Police confirm that the area is under investigation; however, they have not confirmed whether or not the event was linked to the synagogue.
The Police in an official statement announced that the situation has been classified from as an explosion and smoke condition. A press release from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office stated that numerous law enforcement agencies are working together to investigate the incident. However, there has been no update in their investigation as of yet.
Lakewood Mayor Meir Lichtenstein alerted the community via a WhatsApp group, informing them of the situation and assuring them that the police were standing guard.
Concerns have risen due to the fact that the incident occurred near a Jewish place of worship. At this point, any motives or reasoning behind the incident are not clear. It is vital that the investigation is carried out thoroughly to ensure that similar events do not occur in the future.
In conclusion, while no one was injured, the incident is still devastating for the community. “The need for enlightenment and fostering mutual respect between communities has become more critical than ever before,” says Rabbi Avi Schnall of the Agudath Israel of America. What seems clear, from the current information, is that the police must take this case incredibly seriously to ensure that the community is safe.
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