More Elected Officials Release Statements On Kletzky’s Death
In addition to statements by Assemblyman Dov Hikind, Rep. Jerrold Nadler and Councilman David Greenfield we reported on this morning, earlier this afternoon Assemblyman Peter Abbate, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer all released statements expressing their condolences to Leiby Kletzky’s family and thanking volunteers for their help in the search. (Update 2:52 pm- Councilman Michael Nelson also released a statement, at 2:31 pm)
From Assemblyman Abbate:
Brooklyn, NY— Assemblyman Peter Abbate, who represents Borough Park in addition to Bath Beach, Bensonhurst, and Dyker Heights, issued the following statement today on the horrifying abduction and murder of Leibby Kletzky, a 9-year-old boy.
“First and foremost, I extend my most heartfelt condolences to the Kletzky family. As a parent, I know that this is nothing short of a nightmare. Over the past 48 hours, thousands came together, putting forth an extraordinary effort in the search for Leibby. Now, as a community, we join in continuing to support the Kletzky family in any way possible.
I thank all of those from the Hatzolah, Shomrim, Chaveirim, NYPD, FBI and every single person who put up a flier, walked on the street or contributed in any way to the search. The massive outpouring of help is a clear indicator that even in the face of the greatest adversity, we are a strong united community.
No family should ever have to endure a tragedy such as this. I know the community and all of New York City joins me in keeping the Kletzky family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Borough President Markowitz:
“I join Brooklynites and all New Yorkers in mourning the passing of Leiby Kletzky, the victim of a sickening murder that has saddened and outraged Brooklyn’s close-knit Jewish community and families throughout our city and the nation. My sincerest gratitude to all those who searched for Leiby while he was missing—including Assemblyman Hikind, Shomrim Patrol and Hatzolah—and to the NYPD for acting immediately to investigate and apprehend a suspect.
Anyone who would prey on a young child and murder them in such a violent and inhuman way can only be described as a mutant, and this case unfortunately is a reminder that evil walks among us in our communities every day. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Leiby’s loved ones during this difficult time, and we pray for swift justice against the thug responsible for the heinous death of a young man taken from us way too soon.”
Manhattan Borough President Stringer:
“I am shocked and saddened this morning by the news of Leibby Kletzky’s death. Random, senseless killings are horrific wherever and whenever they occur–but the violent murder of an 8-year-old boy walking home alone from school for the first time is an appalling and painful crime. My heart goes out to Leibby’s parents and other family members, his friends and the community that loved him. Nothing can ever replace a lost child, but justice can and will be done. I want to thank the New York City Police Dept. and community volunteers for their hard work in helping to arrest a suspect so quickly in this case.“
Councilman Michael Nelson:
“The events of the past 24 hours regarding the tragic death of Leiby Kletzky are nothing short of horrific. Although the incident did not occur in my district I am familiar with the area and am shocked that this event transpired in such a safe and close knit community. My prayers go out to the family and friends of the victim.
This incident serves as a reminder that we must always remain vigilant of our surroundings and never assume our safety and the safety of our loved ones are guaranteed because we live in a safe community. Furthermore, I commend the NYPD on their swift action in apprehending the alleged perpetrator and express my sincere gratitude to the hundreds of volunteers who came out to assist the police.”
Council Member Michael C. Nelson, who represents the neighborhoods of Brighton Beach, Manhattan Beach, Sheepshead Bay and parts of Midwood, was first elected to the City Council in 1999. He is the Chairman of the Waterfronts Committee and is a member of the Civil Service and Labor, Consumer Affairs, Contracts, Oversight & Investigations, Sanitation and Solid Waste Management Committees. Nelson is also the Chairman of the Jewish Caucus.