GRAPHIC VIDEO: Israeli-Americans Brutally Beaten Unconscious at Upscale San Jose Mall for Speaking Hebrew
Two Israeli-American friends from Haifa were targeted for speaking Hebrew and wearing a Star of David in a brutal daylight assault now being investigated as a hate crime by San Jose police.
San Jose police are actively investigating a brutal assault that occurred on Sunday afternoon, outside the upscale Augustine restaurant in the popular Santana Row shopping and dining area. The incident, captured on bystander video now circulating widely online, is being probed as a potential hate crime after the victims reported that their attackers used antisemitic slurs during the attack.
The victims, identified as Lior Zeevi, 47, and Daniel Levy, 48, both Israeli Americans and longtime friends originally from Haifa, were waiting for a table outside the restaurant when the assault began.
According to the men, who spoke to Jewish news outlets, the attack erupted moments after they were overheard speaking Hebrew to each other. One victim was reportedly wearing a Star of David necklace at the time.
Video footage shows three suspects approaching the pair and launching a sudden, violent attack. The assailants punched and kicked the victims repeatedly, knocking at least one to the ground and briefly rendering him unconscious. Bystanders can be seen nearby, with some eventually intervening as the suspects fled the scene.
Zeevi and Levy sustained injuries including cuts, bruises, and head/facial trauma but were treated at the scene or a local hospital and later released. They described the beating as "brutal," with multiple attackers piling on.
San Jose Police Department (SJPD) officials confirmed that the victims alleged the use of antisemitic language, including phrases like "f***ing Jew," during the altercation. The department's Assaults Unit is leading the investigation, classifying it as a possible hate crime.
The suspects are Roma Akoyans, Ramon Akoyans, and Bruneli Chamaki.
Local leaders have condemned the violence. U.S. Congressman Ro Khanna, whose district includes Santana Row, called the assault "horrific" and stated he is in contact with police and Jewish community leaders. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized that "violence and hate have no place in our community" and pledged support for a thorough investigation. Former Mayor and current officials echoed calls for accountability.