Hate Crime Alert: DC Jewish Restaurant Vandalized on Historic Kristallnacht Anniversary!
WASHINGTON – D.C. police are investigating an act of vandalism at a Jewish restaurant that occurred on the anniversary of a tragic night in history.
On Saturday, Nov. 9, officers responded to a call at Char Bar, a Kosher restaurant located in the 2100 block of L Street, Northwest. The restaurant had two broken windows, and rocks believed to have been used in the attack were found on the sidewalk nearby. When police arrived, they found no signs of forced entry into the restaurant.
Authorities believe the incident occurred around 3 a.m. The windows of the restaurant have since been boarded up. Initially, the police looked into the possibility that the vandalism was a hate crime. However, they later said there was no evidence or information suggesting that the act was driven by hate.
“Detectives are continuing to investigate, but at this point, there is no information or evidence that this offense was motivated by hate or bias,” the police stated in an official report.
The timing of the attack, however, raises concerns. It took place on the anniversary of Kristallnacht, also known as “The Night of Broken Glass,” when Nazi forces in Germany destroyed Jewish homes, businesses, and schools.
“It’s stressful. Stressful for all the people around me. Stressful for my employees who worry about what might happen next,” said the restaurant’s owner, who goes by the name Chelsea.
“We serve the Jewish community. It’s not even political or anything. We are just providing Kosher food to people who can’t find it elsewhere.
This place is a passion project for me, and now I have to think twice about staying open and continuing the business. It’s sad, but it’s the reality of life here in America, and sadly, in other parts of the world as well,” he added.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington issued a statement calling the act “deeply disturbing.” They also noted the troubling timing, as it coincided with the 86th anniversary of Kristallnacht.
“This vandalism of a Jewish business is deeply disturbing on its own. Its timing on the 86th anniversary of Kristallnacht raises many more questions and concerns that must be answered,” the Federation said.
Gil Preuss, a Federation representative, believes the incident was targeted and is calling for a thorough investigation.
“The technical definition of the crime needs to be clear, but from a human perspective, it’s hard to think of this as anything but a targeted attack,” Preuss said.
Despite canvassing the area, police say there are no security cameras nearby that could provide additional information. They are urging anyone with details to contact the police.