Buono Condemns Firebombing Of Bergen County Temple

Senator Barbara Buono (D-Middlesex) issued a statement condemning the alleged firebombing of Temple Beth El in Rutherford, NJ.

“Deplorable acts of violence motivated by hatred and intolerance have no place in our society,” said Buono. “No group or individual should be forced to live in fear for their safety or for the safety of their family and neighbors.”

The fire, which was started at around 4:30 this morning, began in the upstairs portion of the structure which is reportedly home to Rabbi Nosson Schuman and his wife and five children. Press accounts have confirmed that no one was injured.

“While I am relieved to learn that the Rabbi and his family were unharmed, we as a state and as a community cannot allow such acts of violent prejudice and intolerance to go unchallenged,” Buono continued. “I have every confidence that Bergen County and State authorities will ensure that justice is sought and served. But we as members of this state have a responsibility to denounce these acts, to demand tolerance, and to teach future generations that such behavior will never have a place in New Jersey.”