URGENT UPDATE: A Jewish-owned HVAC company in San Jose has been targeted in a shocking act of vandalism, with swastikas and “KKK” painted on its vehicles and garage door Monday night. Lior Zeevi, owner of HVAC Gurus, reported the incident, prompting an immediate investigation by the San Jose Police Department (SJPD) as a hate crime.
The vandalism was discovered Tuesday morning around 8:45 a.m. when Zeevi was alerted by an employee. Upon arriving at the scene, he found extensive damage, including broken windows and mirrors on at least four vehicles. The garage door also bore the hateful symbols, leaving Zeevi feeling “disgusted” and “extremely disappointed.”
“They have nothing better to do than damage other people’s properties just because of my religion,” he stated. “It’s very, very dark-minded people that actually are going to go and do stuff like that.”
The SJPD confirmed that they are actively investigating the incident and have not yet identified any suspects. Security footage reportedly captured three masked figures committing the vandalism, further intensifying concerns for local residents.
Zeevi has taken immediate steps to mitigate the impact on his business, including renting vehicles for ongoing operations while he assesses the damage. “The door of the building will need to be repainted, and the vehicles will need to be cleaned,” he added.
This incident comes in the wake of heightened tensions within the Jewish community following the attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. Zeevi noted that many have been increasing security measures in light of recent events, but this is the first instance of anti-Semitic vandalism he has faced personally.
Rabbi Mendel Weinfeld of Chabad, who supports Zeevi, emphasized the broader implications of such acts. “This was not just vandalism. It was a message meant to intimidate and instill fear,” he said. “But as Jews, we’ve seen this message before, and we know exactly how to respond. Hate doesn’t get the final word — goodness does.”
Zeevi’s experience highlights a concerning trend of rising anti-Semitic incidents in the area, drawing attention to the urgent need for community solidarity and awareness. He concluded, “You’ve reminded us who we are, and you reminded us that the Jewish flame doesn’t flicker; it only burns brighter.”
As the investigation unfolds, community leaders and local residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The SJPD is calling for any witnesses to come forward to aid in identifying the perpetrators of this hate crime.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story continues to evolve.