NYPD Bolsters Security at Religious Sites in NYC Following Colorado Terror Attack on Israeli Hostages Event

New York, NY – June 1, 2025 – The New York Police Department (NYPD) has heightened security measures at religious sites across New York City in response to a violent attack in Colorado targeting an event focused on Israeli hostages. The increased presence coincides with the start of Shavuot, a significant Jewish holiday beginning today, as authorities aim to ensure the safety of worshippers and communities amid rising concerns over targeted violence.

According to posts on X from the NYPD’s official account, the department is actively monitoring the “horrific attack” in Colorado, where a suspect allegedly launched a “targeted terror attack” using Molotov cocktails at a demonstration calling for the release of Israeli hostages. The assault, condemned by the FBI and Colorado Governor as a “heinous act of terror,” left at least five people injured, one critically, as reported by The Independent and the New York Post.

“While there is no known nexus to NYC, in response to last night’s horrific attack in Colorado targeting an event for Israeli hostages, the NYPD has already increased our presence at religious sites throughout NYC for Shavuot with high visibility patrols & heavy weapons teams,” the NYPD stated on X. The department emphasized its commitment to closely tracking developments related to the incident.

The attack in Boulder, Colorado, has been labeled a “targeted terrorist attack” by the FBI, with reports indicating the suspect set at least one victim ablaze during the violent outburst. The New York Post, citing Caitlin McCormack, noted the incident as “hate-fueled,” raising fears of antisemitism amid ongoing global tensions. Colorado authorities and federal agencies are investigating, with no immediate evidence suggesting a direct threat to New York, according to the NYPD.

Shavuot, a Jewish holiday commemorating the giving of the Torah, begins today, June 1, 2025, and runs through June 3. The NYPD’s bolstered security measures include high-visibility patrols, heavy weapons teams, and counterterrorism officers stationed at synagogues, cultural institutions, and other sensitive locations across the city’s five boroughs. This proactive approach aims to provide reassurance to Jewish communities during a time of heightened alertness.

The NYPD’s actions echo previous responses to incidents targeting Jewish communities, such as the increased patrols following the murder of two Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., on May 21, 2025, as reported by CBS New York and The Jewish Press. Governor Kathy Hochul has also directed State Police to enhance patrols at synagogues and Jewish institutions statewide, emphasizing that “public safety is my top priority” and condemning antisemitism as “a threat to all of us.”

As investigations into the Colorado attack continue, the NYPD urges New Yorkers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The department’s measures reflect a broader commitment to combating hate-driven violence and ensuring the safety of all communities during this sacred holiday period.

17GEN4.com

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