Amidst heightened tensions and increasing concerns over antisemitic incidents, a Utah man was apprehended yesterday evening for allegedly threatening to attack synagogues in New York City. Luis Ramirez, a 23-year-old with no prior criminal record, was caught by Port Authority police just outside the Lincoln Tunnel, preventing a potential crisis in Manhattan.

After receiving a tip about a spate of alarming posts on his X account, local law enforcement worked together to track Ramirez's movement toward New York. Despite having been discovered with a firearm during an earlier encounter with police in Kansas City, Ramirez was found unarmed when detained near the tunnel that leads into the heart of the city, as reported by ABC7NY.

One of Ramirez's messages specifically cited Central Synagogue, located on Lexington Avenue, stoking fears among the Jewish community. The NYPD, informed of his intentions and his interstate journey, worked in concert with the Port Authority Police to apprehend him before he could enter Manhattan, mentioned a report from New York Post.

The Community Security Initiative, an organization dedicated to protecting Jewish institutions, played a critical role by flagging the threats and coordinating with law enforcement, thus possibly averting a significant threat to the community. Held at the Hudson County Correctional Center in Kearny, Ramirez is expected to face the consequences of his alleged threats at an arraignment scheduled for today.

No formal charges have been placed yet, officials said, and the ongoing investigation continues to develop.