December 26, 2025 The quiet afternoon hum of Kew Gardens was shattered by a calculated act of intolerance this month, leaving a community searching for answers and the NYPD hunting a suspect who targeted a sacred religious symbol in broad daylight.
A Targeted Act on Metropolitan Avenue
The incident, which is being treated with the utmost gravity by city officials, unfolded at 3:12 p.m. on Monday, December 15. In front of 129-01 Metropolitan Avenue, a parked vehicle wasn't just the victim of random vandalism—it was the target of a possible hate crime.
A man approached the vehicle and, with violent force, ripped a menorah mounted on the roof from its base. The attacker didn't just stop at the theft; he caused significant damage to the property before bolting on foot toward Kew Gardens Road.
The Hunt for the Metropolitan Vandal
While no physical injuries were reported, the psychological impact on the neighborhood is palpable. The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force has officially taken the lead on the case, signaling that this was far more than a simple case of criminal mischief—it was a bias-motivated offense designed to send a message.
Suspect Profile:
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Description: A male with a medium complexion.
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Movement: Last seen fleeing via 129th Street toward Kew Gardens Road.
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Evidence: Detectives have combed through neighborhood surveillance, and images of the suspect have been released to the public in hopes of a quick identification.
A Community Under Watch
Kew Gardens, known for its diverse population and historic charm, now finds itself at the center of a high-stakes investigation. In a city that prides itself on religious freedom, the sight of a menorah being desecrated on a public street has sparked outrage among neighbors of all faiths.
The 102nd Precinct has increased its presence in the area, but the perpetrator remains at large. Police are banking on the fact that someone, somewhere, saw this individual fleeing the scene of the crime.
