Police investigate antisemitic incident targeting Jewish family in Redlands

REDLANDS, Calif. — Redlands police are investigating a potential hate crime after a Jewish family reported that someone yelled an antisemitic slur and fired what is believed to be an airsoft gun at their home Friday evening.

The incident occurred in the 1300 block of Magnolia Avenue on Friday, Dec. 12, shortly after the family arrived home. According to the Redlands Police Department, a vehicle drove past the residence, an occupant shouted an antisemitic slur and fired several shots toward the home. No injuries or property damage were reported.

Police said no shell casings were found at the scene, and home surveillance video showed no visible muzzle flash. Based on the evidence, investigators believe the weapon used was an airsoft handgun.

Authorities believe the family was targeted because of Hanukkah decorations displayed outside the home.

The investigation comes as members of the Jewish community begin celebrating Hanukkah and amid reports of antisemitic incidents nationwide.

In a statement issued by the city, spokesperson Carl Baker said similar incidents have occurred elsewhere during the holiday season.

“As our friends in the Jewish community begin their celebration of Hanukkah, several tragic incidents have occurred across the globe, targeting people simply because of their faith. Unfortunately, Redlands is not immune to these hateful acts, as a local family was targeted because of their festive home decorations celebrating Hanukkah,” Baker wrote Dec. 14.

Mayor Mario Saucedo also condemned the incident.

“While we are relieved that no injuries occurred, it is important to reaffirm our support of our community members, no matter their faith,” Saucedo said. “Violence and hatred have no place in Redlands.”

In a post on social media Sunday, Councilmember Denise Davis wrote, “A hate crime occurred in Redlands against a Jewish family in our community. I was horrified to hear this and absolutely condemn all violence and hate. I’m wishing peace and safety to all in our Redlands community. Please reach out if you are in need of help or resources.”

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department also condemned the incident and emphasized the importance of community vigilance.

“The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is saddened by the act of violence targeting a home displaying Hanukkah decorations in our community and by the horrific terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney,” the department said in a statement. “No one should ever feel threatened for expressing their faith or identity. These acts of hatred, whether here at home or abroad, stand in stark contrast to the values of tolerance, dignity, and unity that bind us together.”

The statement urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activity.

Redlands police said they are actively investigating the incident and have increased patrols in the surrounding neighborhood and near places of worship throughout the city.

Anyone with information about the incident or related suspicious activity is asked to contact Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681, ext. 1. Some non-emergency crimes can also be reported online through the department’s CopLogic system or via the city of Redlands’ 311 mobile app.

This article was written based on a press release from the Redlands Police Department Dec. 14, 2025. Updates will be made here.