CLIFTON, N.J. — A 21-year-old Bergenfield man is accused of smashing his way into a Clifton synagogue with a hammer and stealing cash in a pre-dawn burglary.

The Bergenfield man was arrested Oct. 1 and charged in connection with the Sept. 24 break-in at Kehillas Beis Sholom on Passaic Avenue, according to Clifton police.

Police were called around 4:38 a.m. after a nearby resident reported hearing loud noises and seeing a man running from the area.

When officers arrived, they found signs of forced entry at the rear of the synagogue.

Investigators brought in drones and a K-9 unit from the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office as they worked to identify the suspect.

Police said the investigation ultimately led them to the Bergenfield man.

“Evidence shows he forced entry into the synagogue by striking a rear door with a hammer, pulling it open, and stealing cash from inside,” Clifton police said.

The amount of cash was described as small.

The Bergenfield man was charged with burglary, criminal mischief, theft, possession of burglary tools and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

He was taken to the Bergen County Jail.