In a shocking incident in Teaneck, New Jersey, a man has been arrested for allegedly throwing a rock at a school bus, resulting in a fractured skull for an 8-year-old girl. The girl, a third grader, was hospitalized following the attack on a bus returning from a field trip.
Incident Details
The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on Wednesday while the bus was traveling on the New Jersey Turnpike. The vehicle was transporting students back to Yeshivat Noam from the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City. Police reports indicate that Hernando Garciamorales, 40, from Palisades Park, threw a rock the size of a baseball just before the Teaneck Road exit.
Assailant’s Arrest
Garciamorales has been charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Aggravated assault
- Possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
- Endangering the welfare of a child
- Criminal mischief
- Resisting arrest by flight
- Hindering an investigation
He was apprehended at a makeshift campsite in Old Croaker County Park, Bergen County. Police also linked him to several similar incidents of rock-throwing in Bogota Borough.
Impact on Victim
The rock shattered the bus glass and struck the young girl in the head. Fortunately, she underwent surgery and is expected to recover. No other injuries were reported among the students on board.
Community Response
The Jewish Federation issued a statement acknowledging the incident and indicating they are closely monitoring the situation. Authorities have noted that the bus did not have any identifying marks indicating it belonged to a Jewish school, which leaves the motive for the attack under investigation.
Conclusion
This incident has raised serious concerns about student safety during school transportation. Local authorities urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
