A man has been federally charged in connection with the Albany Synagogue Shooting last Thursday, officials confirmed. Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, aged 28 according to sources briefed on the matter, has been arrested and faces charges of possessing a firearm as a prohibited person, as stated by FBI spokesperson Sarah Ruane to media.
The incident occurred around 2 p.m. outside Temple Israel when two shots were discharged from a shotgun. Albany Police Chief Eric Hawkins reported that no one was injured, and the direction of the shots remains unknown. During a news conference, Hawkins mentioned that responding officers were informed that the suspect, Alkhader, uttered the phrase “Free Palestine.”
Following the gunfire, the shooter attempted to escape but was confronted by an individual in a vehicle within a parking lot. Hawkins stated, “The suspect at that point made some statement to this person who was in the vehicle to the effect of he feels that he’s being victimized.” Subsequently, the suspect dropped the shotgun, leading to his apprehension by law enforcement. Hawkins emphasized that Al Khader acted alone, assuring the community that there is no ongoing threat. Additionally, there was no reported damage to the synagogue.
The incident is being investigated as a potential hate crime, and Hawkins acknowledged that charges, including federal ones, are being considered. The FBI, in collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies, is actively investigating the matter, deploying various resources to ascertain potential motives.
In response to the incident and as Hanukkah commenced on Thursday night, New York Governor Kathy Hochul directed heightened security measures at vulnerable locations such as synagogues, yeshivas, and community centers. Hochul condemned antisemitism, labeling any act as unacceptable, and emphasized the rejection of hate and violence in all forms.
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Echoing Hochul’s sentiments, New York Mayor Eric Adams assured that the New York City Police Department is on heightened alert. Pre-planned security measures have been implemented around public Menorah displays and lighting events to safeguard the right of everyone in the city to practice their faith peacefully. Adams emphasized the commitment to protecting this right and ensuring the safety of the community.