Investigation underway after Oakland menorah destroyed and thrown into Lake Merritt

Vandals tore apart and threw a large menorah into Lake Merritt in Oakland, along with spray painting anti-Israel and antisemitic graffiti nearby. The Chabad Center of Oakland, which set up the menorah, expressed fear and anger over the incident. The vandalism is being investigated as a hate crime, and city workers recovered the menorah's metal parts. Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao condemned the act and emphasized the importance of standing against hate and bigotry. The Jewish community plans to rebuild the menorah and invites people of all faiths to join in solidarity.