Surveillance video captured a Brooklyn man being sucker-punched while operating a forklift at his family's Crown Heights business Thursday, and the victim says he believes it was a hate crime.
Foli Spritzer said he was just doing his job when two men walked up to him and asked for the time before one of them punched him in the face. Spritzer fought back, chasing after them.
"Why I did it? I don't know. I look at the video and I'm shocked at myself that I acted that way," he said. "But I'm very happy that I was able to react and get one of them."
Spritzer said he was bruised on the cheek. As for a motive, he said "it was obviously premeditated. They were going after me."
His father agrees he was targeted because he's Jewish.
"To me, it's obviously a hate crime and I hope the DA's office sees it for what it is and designates it as a hate crime," said Yankel Spritzer.
Community activist Yaacov Berhman said he wants answers.
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"I'm wondering what caused this," he said.
Police are searching for the supsects but say it's not being investigated as a hate crime right now.
Next door to the Spritzers' business, neighborhood regulars at the park-turned-outdoor gym said they know Foli Spritzer and don't have any issues with him.
"I told him if anybody mess with him, he should come here and let us know," said Cecil Simon.
It was business as usual Friday, but the Spritzers hope for justice.
"It's black and white, you can't deny it," he said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-577-TIPS.
