One Arrested for Arson at Jackson Jewish Synagogue

JACKSON, Miss. — One person has been arrested in connection with an arson attack at Jackson’s only Jewish synagogue early Saturday morning.

According to the Jackson Fire Department, crews responded around 3:00 a.m. to a fire at Congregation Beth Israel, located on Old Canton Road. The fire is being investigated by the department’s Arson Investigation Division, which is working in partnership with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Officials confirmed that an arrest has been made for the crime of arson. The suspect’s identity has not been released at this time. Authorities say the synagogue was closed when the fire occurred, and no injuries were reported.

Jackson Mayor John Horhn released a statement Sunday morning condemning the attack and expressing support for the Jewish community.

“Acts of antisemitism, racism, and religious hatred are attacks on Jackson as a whole and will be treated as acts of terror against residents’ safety and freedom to worship,” Horhn said. “Targeting people because of their faith, race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation is morally wrong, un-American, and completely incompatible with the values of this city.”

Horhn added that the city stands firmly with Congregation Beth Israel.

“Jackson stands with Beth Israel and the Jewish community, and we’ll do everything we can to support them and hold accountable anyone who tries to spread fear and hate here.”he mayor also praised the rapid response by local and federal agencies.

“I was at Beth Israel yesterday, and I saw firsthand how our partners stepped up. I want to thank the Jackson Fire Department and its Arson Investigation Division, JPD, along with our federal partners at ATF, the FBI, and the Joint Terrorism Task Force, for moving quickly and working together. Their work led to the swift arrest of a suspect, and we’ll continue to support their efforts as the investigation moves forward.”

The investigation remains ongoing.

Photo-JFD