Gunman Fires 20 Shots at Hanukkah-Decorated Jewish Home in California

A Jewish family in Redlands, California, survived an antisemitic drive-by shooting after a gunman fired around 20 bullets into their home while shouting abuse against Jews. The house had been clearly decorated for Hanukkah, making the family a visible and deliberate target, reports The Jerusalem Post.

The attack took place on Saturday as the family returned home from dinner. According to the family, a car was parked a few houses away when the driver verbally harassed them as they entered their house. Doorbell camera footage later showed the suspect driving past the property and opening fire from the vehicle while shouting antisemitic slurs, including “f*** the Jews,” before fleeing the scene.

In a statement shared with the Jewish outlet Community News, the family described the incident as a targeted hate attack. They said their home displayed multiple Hanukkah decorations, including illuminated “Happy Hanukkah” signs and inflatable Jewish symbols. Approximately three minutes after the initial confrontation, the gunman returned and discharged 20 rounds at the house. No injuries were reported, but the family said they were deeply shaken by the incident. As of the latest update, the suspect has not been arrested.

Jewish organisations strongly condemned the shooting. David Englin, Senior Director of the Anti-Defamation League in Los Angeles, described it as “another dangerous and despicable act of violence impacting the Jewish community in Southern California.” He emphasised that the attack reflects a broader pattern of antisemitic threats and violence.

ADL Chief Executive Jonathan Greenblatt highlighted the wider implications for Jewish safety. Referring to the Hanukkah tradition of publicly displaying the menorah, he said the holiday symbolises Jewish survival and resilience. However, he warned that when Jews do not feel safe, public expressions of Jewish identity become a risk rather than a celebration. “Threats to the Jewish community’s safety must not be tolerated or normalised,” he said. “Enough is enough.”