The victim, who was walking alone around 12:45 a.m., was approached by a group of unknown males who asked if he was Jewish. When the young man confirmed, the group violently attacked him before fleeing on foot.

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Despite suffering minor injuries, the victim did not require hospitalization and reported the incident to the Ann Arbor Police Department (AAPD) later that afternoon at 12:20 p.m.

Police on high alert: hate crimes unit takes charge.

The Ann Arbor Police Department has launched an investigation into this act of antisemitism, with Chief of Police Andre Anderson confirming that the case is being handled by the department’s hate crimes detective.

Zero tolerance: Chief Anderson condemns hate crimes.

Chief Anderson delivered a strong message condemning the attack, stating, “I have communicated with the University of Michigan police staff, and our goal is to discuss safety over the next few weeks. There is absolutely no place for hate or ethnic intimidation in the City of Ann Arbor. Our department stands against antisemitism and all acts of bias-motivated crimes. We are committed to vigorously investigating this and other hate-motivated incidents and will work with the County Prosecutor’s office to aggressively prosecute those who are responsible.”

U-M Jewish student organization responds.

Davey Rosen, CEO of Michigan Hillel, a Jewish student organization located at the University of Michigan, said that the organization is in regular communication with state and federal law enforcement. in a statement he said, “The safety of our students is our highest priority, and we appreciate law enforcement’s quick response. We know this is difficult news to hear especially as we are just beginning the school year…Unfortunately, this incident has marred an otherwise incredible start to the new academic year.”

Rosen went on to say, “In hard times, we at Michigan Hillel draw strength from this incredible community – students, parents, alumni, and friends – and that strength powers our pride and joy in being Jewish and, in particular, being Jewish at the University of Michigan.”

Call to action: community urged to speak up.

As the investigation continues, the AAPD urges anyone who may have seen or heard anything related to this incident to come forward. Public cooperation is vital to holding the attackers accountable and preventing future acts of hate from taking root in Ann Arbor. If you have any information, please contact the Ann Arbor Police Department TIP line at 734.794.6939 or email tips@a2gov.org.