A Jewish family's celebration of Hanukkah in Redlands was marred by a harrowing incident on the evening of December 12th, as they became the targets of what the Redlands Police Department is investigating as a potential hate crime, according to a report by NBC Los Angeles. The residence, festooned with Hanukkah decorations, was barraged with shots from what the police believe was an airsoft gun, the family emerged unscathed from the encounter, which has since unfolded into a larger discussion on faith-targeted violence.
Just before the shooting, Rodgir Cohen and his son Jon Paul were about to depart from their home when they encountered three suspects, two women and a man, who shouted, “Free Palestine,” and racial slurs, after which they left the scene only to return and shoot at the house with more than 20 rounds, KTLA reported. With no shell casings found and absent muzzle flash in the surveillance footage, it was concluded the weapon used was likely an airsoft gun, as Redlands police clarified, adding to the narrative of hostility that, for one night, turned into a fusillade against peace.
While the outer decorations sustained damage, the spirit of the holiday was remarkably unshaken as homeowner Heftsibah Cohen interpreted the sound of gunfire as mere fireworks. Only later, upon reviewing the upsetting surveillance, did the reality of the hostility sink in, she told KTLA. Notwithstanding the hate directed at them Rodgir Cohen maintained resilience as he recounted their determination to uphold the values of Hanukkah, saying "Hanukkah is about restoring and bringing the light to the world, bringing joy, peace and friendship amongst all communities across the world."
The sentiment was echoed by Redlands Mayor Mario Saucedo who strongly condemned the act stating “Violence and hatred have no place in Redlands,” this in a statement per CBS News Los Angeles; the incident has rippled outward prompting increased police patrols around places of worship, The Anti-Defamation League also decried the attack as a "dangerous and despicable act of violence" continuing a tragic pattern of incidents globally where individuals have been targeted for their faith on Hanukkah, these statements and actions coming together in a shared voice against the prevailing winds of intolerance.
As the investigation continues, authorities have called upon the public for any information relating to the hateful incident and encourage contacting the Redlands Police Department. The number provided by the department is 909-798-7681, with further details yet to emerge on the suspects or the vehicle prosecutors remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice while the Cohen family inspires the community with their grace under fire amid the darker currents swirling through the holidays.
