A Darien woman has been charged with a hate crime in DuPage County after an alleged anti-Palestinian attack at a Panera Bread in Downers Grove. Authorities say 64-year-old Alexandra Szustakiewicz initiated a physical altercation with a couple over their attire, which featured the word “Palestine.”
Incident at Panera Bread
The altercation occurred Saturday at the Panera Bread near Lemont Road and 75th Street. Waseem Zahran and his wife were having lunch when Szustakiewicz allegedly approached them and began berating them.
Zahran recounted the experience, stating that the woman started swearing at them before escalating her behavior.
“She came closer to our face, and then started like asking, ‘Are you Palestinian?’ I was like, ‘Yes, I am.’ And then she proceeded to scream in my face like, ‘[Expletive] Palestine,'” Zahran told reporters.
The situation turned physical moments later, prompting Zahran’s wife to begin recording the incident.
Hate Crime Allegations
Police say Szustakiewicz targeted the couple due to their perceived national origin. She reportedly confronted them because of their clothing, which prominently displayed “Palestine.”
The Downers Grove Police Department swiftly responded to the incident, and Szustakiewicz was charged with a hate crime and battery.
She appeared before a judge in Wheaton on Monday, less than 48 hours after the incident. If convicted of the hate crime charge, she could face significant legal penalties.
Victim Speaks Out
Zahran expressed shock and disappointment over the unprovoked attack, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable.
“We were just trying to have lunch. This is America—everyone should feel safe, regardless of who they are or where they’re from,” Zahran said.
The recording taken by his wife has been submitted to authorities as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Community Reaction
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from community members and advocacy groups. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) issued a statement denouncing the attack and calling for justice.
“This is a deeply troubling reminder of the challenges faced by Palestinian-Americans and Muslims. We stand with the victims and demand accountability for this hateful act,” said Ahmed Rehab, executive director of CAIR-Chicago.
Broader Context
This case comes amid a rise in hate crimes reported across the U.S., with increasing incidents targeting individuals based on their national origin or religion. Advocacy organizations are urging greater awareness and stronger measures to combat such acts of intolerance.
Szustakiewicz remains in custody as the investigation continues. Authorities have encouraged anyone with additional information or video footage of the altercation to come forward.
The case highlights the importance of addressing hate crimes and fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals feel respected and safe.