The Cohen family in Redlands, California, says their Hanukkah-decorated home was struck more than 20 times during a drive-by on Dec. 12. Surveillance footage and witness accounts indicate suspects shouted "Free Palestine" and used a racial slur; police believe an airsoft handgun was used. No injuries or shell casings were reported, though several holiday inflatables were damaged. Authorities are investigating the incident as a potential hate crime and have increased patrols.
Redlands Family Says Hanukkah-Decorated Home Was Shot Over 20 Times in Alleged Hate Attack
Courtesy of Rodgir CohenRodgir Cohen's Hanukkah decorations
A Jewish family in Redlands, California, says their home — decorated for Hanukkah — was struck more than 20 times in a drive-by incident on Dec. 12 that police are investigating as a possible hate crime.
Homeowner Rodgir Cohen, his wife Heftsibah Cohen and their son Jon Paul shared surveillance video and told KTLA 5 News they first encountered a four-door sedan containing two women and a man as they were leaving their home at about 8 p.m. The family says a man in the vehicle shouted "Free Palestine" and used a racial slur while pointing an object in their direction.
Courtesy of Rodgir CohenThe Cohen family
Not long after, the vehicle returned. Heftsibah initially heard sounds she thought were fireworks and the family dogs began barking. When the Cohens reviewed their surveillance footage they discovered their house had been struck more than 20 times.
Police findings: The Redlands Police Department said investigators believe the impacts were caused by an airsoft-style handgun. Officers reported no injuries, no shell casings and no visible muzzle flash on the surveillance video, which contributed to the assessment that an airsoft pistol was likely used. Several Hanukkah inflatables in the front yard were damaged.
Courtesy of Rodgir CohenRodgir Cohen's home
Possible Motive and Response
Authorities said the family’s Hanukkah decorations may have prompted the attack and that they are treating the incident as a potential hate crime. The department announced additional patrols in the area and around places of worship while the investigation continues.
“Looking back and realizing that what he had in his hand was likely a gun and that he was that close to me really shakes me up,” Jon Paul told KTLA.
The alleged drive-by occurred the same weekend a deadly mass shooting at a Hanukkah event in Australia’s Bondi Beach drew worldwide attention, heightening concerns about antisemitic violence.
Courtesy of Rodgir CohenSecurity footage
Despite the incident, Rodgir told reporters the family will continue to celebrate Hanukkah. “Hanukkah is about restoring and bringing the light to the world, bringing joy, peace and friendship amongst all communities across the world,” he said.
The Redlands Police Department said it is actively investigating the incident and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Location: 1300 block of Magnolia Avenue, Redlands, California
Date: Dec. 12 (press release issued Dec. 14)
