Brooklyn, N.Y. – Bill de Blasio, New York City Mayor, says today’s stabbing of Israeli student Levi Rosenblatt at Brooklyn’s Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters highlights the need and importance of assistance for those with mental health problems.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Levi Rosenblatt and the entire Chabad-Lubavitch community in the aftermath of this disturbing attack. New York City stands with the Crown Heights community, and under the leadership of the New York City Police Department, we are monitoring this case very closely and conducting a thorough investigation,” said de Blasio.

“This incident also highlights the urgent need for increased services for emotionally disturbed or troubled people. Preliminary reports suggest the assailant in this case suffered from mental health issues. We as a society must do more for those who struggle with these challenges, and it is why the City has launched a new plan to improve access to mental health care and treatment for those in need,” continued the mayor.

Calvin Peters stabbed Israeli student Rosenblat in the head early Tuesday and was killed by police officers after he refused to put down his weapon. Peters, 49, was emotionally disturbed and had a documented history of mental illness (http://bit.ly/1BwWRMs ).

Rosenblat is in stable condition.