BREAKING: A Jewish-owned HVAC company in San Jose was vandalized with swastikas and hate symbols early Tuesday morning, igniting outrage and concern within the community. The incident occurred at approximately 8:45 a.m. at HVAC Gurus on the 70 block of Phelan Avenue, where unknown suspects targeted multiple vehicles and the company’s garage door.
Owner Lior Zeevi expressed his horror, stating he was “disgusted” and “extremely disappointed” by the attack. “They have nothing better to do than come and damage other people’s properties just because of my religion,” Zeevi said. “It’s very, very dark-minded people that actually go and do stuff like that.”
The San Jose Police Department is investigating the incident as a hate crime, following reports that at least one vehicle was marked with a hate symbol. Zeevi received a call from an employee alerting him to the damage, which included broken windows and mirrors on some vehicles. In response, he has resorted to renting vehicles to continue operations.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured three masked figures committing the vandalism, which also included the letters “KKK” painted on the garage door. Zeevi emphasized the need for community vigilance, stating, “We want to make sure that it’s not going to happen again to nobody else.”
This incident marks the first time Zeevi has experienced anti-Semitic vandalism at his business, particularly alarming in the wake of heightened tensions following the attacks on October 7, 2023, in Israel. “Since those attacks, the Jewish community has been very cautious, including paying for extra security,” he noted.
Rabbi Mendel Weinfeld of Chabad, who is Zeevi’s rabbi, condemned the vandalism as “not just vandalism,” but “a message meant to intimidate.” He reassured the community, stating, “Hate doesn’t get the final word — goodness does.” Weinfeld added, “You 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 members are rallying around Zeevi and his business, demonstrating resilience in the face of hate. The San Jose Police Department encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward to help identify the suspects.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges facing the Jewish community amid rising anti-Semitic incidents across the nation. Authorities are urging heightened awareness and vigilance as they work to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
