Jewish Teen Shot with Air Rifle, Swastikas Deface Bournemouth Homes | WATCH
A Jewish teen was shot with an air rifle and swastikas defaced homes in Bournemouth, alarming the seaside city’s Jewish community as police investigate a surge in antisemitic attacks.
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A disturbing surge in antisemitic incidents has rocked Bournemouth, a popular British seaside resort, with a Jewish teenager shot by an air rifle and swastikas appearing on buildings across the city. The attacks, reported by the Daily Mail and The Times, have heightened fears within Bournemouth’s 2,000-strong Jewish community.
This past Shabbat (August 23) a Jewish boy was shot in the forehead with an air rifle from a passing car while walking in the East Cliff area, a well-known tourist spot. The Daily Mail reported that the teen sustained minor swelling and is in stable condition. Local police are investigating the incident as a hate crime, confirming that around 2:50 p.m., a driver stopped near two pedestrians on Manor Road, hurled offensive remarks, and fired the air rifle at the boy, causing a minor head injury. Authorities have increased patrols in Jewish community areas and are urging witnesses to come forward.
Compounding the alarm, swastikas have been spray-painted on buildings throughout Bournemouth, including the home of Rabbi Ben Zion Alperowicz, who runs the local Chabad House. Rabbi Alperowicz discovered a swastika on his house while walking to synagogue with his daughters, aged seven and ten, on Saturday morning. “It was deeply upsetting and concerning,” he told The Times, describing the graffiti as a painful sight for his children. Born and raised in Bournemouth, he added, “This is not the Bournemouth I know. It’s a lovely, beautiful place for the vast majority of people here.” He vowed resilience, stating, “Cowards sprayed this on our home. We’ve erased it, and our mezuzah will continue to protect us. Be proud to be Jewish and never let these forces of darkness instill fear.”
Police are working with the community to address the rising antisemitic incidents, with a spokesperson emphasizing, “Officers are collaborating with local residents and conducting patrols. We encourage anyone with information or concerns to speak with an officer.” The wave of hate has stunned Bournemouth, known for its welcoming atmosphere, prompting calls for vigilance.