West Hempstead rabbi struck by hit and run driver

A West Hempstead rabbi was struck by a hit and run driver last night when he attempted to cross the street in front of the Young Israel of West Hempstead, located at 630 Hempstead Ave. The accident occurred at 7:35 p.m., Nassau Police said.

According to detectives, a white Dodge Ram pick-up truck was traveling southbound on Hempstead Ave. when it struck Rabbi Jordon Kelemer, 70, of West Hempstead. The vehicle, possibly an early 2000 model with driver side front end damage, left the scene of the accident. Kelemer was found by a passerby.

Kelemer sustained a head injury and was transported by Hatzalah Ambulance Corps of Western Nassau. He is listed in serious but stable condition.

Det. Lt. Richard LeBrun, a Nassau police spokesman, said during a press conference at Young Israel on Dec. 13 that the police have a surveillance video that they're examining for further information. Kelemer, LeBrun said, was approaching the synagogue from the west side of Hempstead Ave. when he was struck.

"He’s very, very close with the community," said Rabbi David Warshaw, executive director of the Young Israel of West Hempstead. "For all joyous occasions, all sad occasions, he’s always there. He’s an extremely concerned and dedicated individual who's really involved with the full life of the congregation."

Warshaw commented that there have been prayer services for the rabbi ongoing since last night at the synagogue.

Detectives request anyone with information regarding this accident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.