FAIRPORT, N.Y. (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) — A man rushed the stage and pulled out a sharp object before he was subdued at a gubernatorial campaign rally for Congressman Lee Zeldin on Thursday.
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Zeldin was giving a campaign speech at the VFW on Macedon Center Road in Fairport when a man got on stage, started yelling, wrestled with the congressman and pulled out a sharp object, according to witnesses.
Among those who helped to subdue the attacker was Zeldin’s running mate, former NYPD Deputy Inspector Alison Esposito, said state GOP Chair Nick Langworthy.
The Metropolitan Republican Club tweeted a picture purporting to show the object the man pulled, reportedly metal knuckles with knives shaped like cats ears. It can also be seen in a photo tweeted by Zeldin, who said the man told him, "You're done."
Zeldin’s campaign said the attacker was taken into custody and the congressman continued his speech.
“Thank you to everyone who reached out following tonight’s attack in Fairport,” Zeldin said in a statement. “Someone tried to stab me on stage during this evening’s rally, but fortunately, I was able to grab his wrist and stop him for a few moments until others tackled him.”
“I’m ok, and Alison Esposito, and all other attendees are safe,” Zeldin added. “The attacker is in custody. Grateful for the attendees who stepped up quickly to assist and the law enforcement officers who quickly responded. I’m as resolute as ever to do my part to make New York safe again. This suspect will likely be right back out on the street immediately.”
The suspect, David G. Jakubonis, was soon released on his own recognizance after being charged with felony second-degree attempted assault, the Monroe County Sheriff said.
The congressman was recently elected to be the Republican nominee to run against Gov. Kathy Hochul in the New York gubernatorial race.
In a statement, Hochul condemned the attack and said she was “relieved to hear that Congressman Zeldin was not injured and that the suspect is in custody.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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