Elmhurst, NY – Ohr Avner Day Camp has released a letter to parents detailing Tuesday’s incident in which an apparently mentally ill man carrying a hammer entered the camp grounds before being restrained by staff and taken into custody by the New York Police Department.
According to the statement, the man entered the front yard of the camp while children were playing under staff supervision. Camp officials said the individual lay on the ground and asked for a drink of water, prompting staff members to approach him while ensuring campers remained supervised and safe.
Staff intervened as suspect approached building
The camp said a staff member noticed the man had a hammer beside him and calmly asked him to hand it over, which he did without incident. As buses arrived to transport children home, officials said the man suddenly attempted to enter the building but was pushed back by several staff members.
During the struggle, one staff member suffered a minor injury and later received immediate medical attention. The individual then tried to enter the building again before security officers arrived.
“As the individual attempted to enter the building, our building security officer, Anthony, who was at his post, immediately intervened,” the letter states. “With remarkable courage, professionalism, and presence of mind, Anthony restrained the individual and held him until the NYPD arrived and took him into custody.”
Camp officials also praised other staff members who helped keep children calm throughout the incident while emergency responders and law enforcement secured the scene.
Camp says incident appears to be random
In its message to families, the camp emphasized that the incident appears to have been isolated.
“Based on everything we know, this was a completely random incident,” the statement said. “There is absolutely no indication that our camp, our campers, or our staff were specifically targeted.”
Officials acknowledged that some children witnessed portions of the incident and said the camp has consulted with mental health professionals to help support campers who may have been affected. Parents were encouraged to speak with their children and contact the camp if additional assistance is needed.
Additional security measures under review
The camp said it is reviewing Tuesday’s events with staff and evaluating additional security measures that could further strengthen campus safety.
“The safety and security of our campers and staff remain our highest priority,” the statement said. “We are reviewing today’s events with our staff and evaluating any additional measures that may further strengthen the safety and security of our camp.”
The incident ended with the suspect in NYPD custody. Camp officials said they remain grateful for the actions of staff members, security personnel, first responders, and law enforcement, noting that campers remained as safe as possible throughout the ordeal.
