Township of Teaneck Acknowledges Law Enforcement Response Following January 7th Bus Incident

Township of Teaneck Acknowledges Law Enforcement Response Following January 7th Bus Incident

Teaneck, NJ — January 11, 2026 — The Township of Teaneck extends its sincere gratitude to the law enforcement agencies and public officials who acted swiftly and collaboratively following the January 7th rock-throwing incident that seriously injured an 8-year-old child.

On behalf of Teaneck’s Mayor & Council and leadership, the Township thanks the New Jersey State Police, the Teaneck Police Department, led by Chief Andrew McGurr, the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, Rabbi Joel Friedman, Rabbi Chaim Hagler, Rabbi Daniel Fridman, Congressman Josh Gottheimer, and Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Zur for their immediate response and coordination.

Through this joint effort, Hernando Garciamorales was quickly identified, apprehended, and is currently in custody facing multiple criminal charges in connection with this incident.

“From the very first moments after this incident, every agency involved shared one clear priority: to find the individual responsible before anyone else was harmed,” said Township Manager Jaclyn M. Hashmat. “The speed, seriousness, and cooperation demonstrated throughout this investigation reflect the very best of public service. Our hearts remain with the child and her family, and we are grateful she is recovering.”

Township officials remained in close communication with law enforcement and school representatives throughout the investigation. Given the serious injury of a minor, the matter was treated with urgency and personal commitment at every level. The Township also recognizes Rabbi Hagler, Principal of Yeshivat Noam, for his leadership, true compassion for the family and child and cooperation throughout the investigation process.

“The men and women of the Teaneck Police Department, along with our state and county partners, worked in cooperation with the New Jersey State Police to bring this individual into custody,” said Police Chief McGurr. “This case was handled with the utmost care and determination, and we are relieved that the person responsible is off the streets and no longer poses a threat to our community.

The Township of Teaneck remains focused to its commitment to public safety and thanks all agencies and officials who demonstrated extraordinary cooperation and resolve during this difficult time.