August 18, 2021
Denver, CO

We are all heartbroken over the fatal shooting overnight of a student outside Yeshiva Toras Chaim in Denver  and offer our prayers to his family and community. The victim is identified as 19-year-old Shmuel (Shmuli) Silverberg z”l, of Cleveland, OH.

Upon learning of the shooting, I joined leadership from JEWISHcolorado and Secure Community Network (SCN), at the yeshiva to offer the support of the Anti-Defamation League. I also attended the funeral service on behalf of ADL. Our office has also been in regular communication with the Chief of the Denver Police Department and other senior law enforcement officers as the investigation into this crime progresses.

Police report that the killing may have been part of a multi-jurisdictional crime spree that included at least one carjacking, another shooting and a burglary.  At this time, law enforcement authorities do not feel this homicide was an act targeted specifically at the Jewish community. However, all aspects of this string of crimes, including motive, remain under investigation. Suspects are still being sought by police.

The ADL Mountain States Region is an active partner in JEWISHcolorado’s Regional Security Initiative. We extend gratitude to JEWISHcolorado President & CEO Rabbi Jay Strear, SCN Regional Security Advisor Phil Niedringhaus and Rose Community Foundation for their support of the community and partnership to help keep our community safe.

To support the family and the Yeshiva Toras Chaim community, contributions can be made at:

JEWISHcolorado:
https://www.jewishcolorado.org/donate/

Yeshiva Toras Chaim:
https://www.ytcdenver.org/

 

We extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family and entire Yeshiva Toras Chaim community for this tragic loss. May the memory of Shmuel Silverberg z”l be for a blessing.

 

Scott Levin, Regional Director
ADL Mountain States Region