FBI: Beth Israel Arson Suspect Confessed to Targeting Jackson Synagogue for Its 'Jewish Ties' as National Support and Solidarity Events Follow
Jan 21
Developing
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Federal authorities say 19‑year‑old Stephen Spencer Pittman admitted to his father and to investigators that he targeted Jackson’s 165‑year‑old Beth Israel Congregation because of its Jewish ties — allegedly calling it “the synagogue of Satan” and laughing “I finally got them,” with surveillance footage, text messages, gas purchases, a broken window and video of a masked figure pouring accelerant corroborating the FBI’s account. The blaze destroyed at least two Torahs and damaged others, revived painful memories of a 1967 KKK bombing, prompted nationwide interfaith solidarity and offers of replacement Torahs and temporary space, and left Pittman, who appeared via video from a hospital bed, arraigned Jan. 20 on federal and state charges (including a hate‑crime enhancement), pleading not guilty, denied bond and ordered to stand trial Feb. 23.
Antisemitic Violence and Hate Crimes
Religious Institutions and Public Safety
Antisemitic Violence in the U.S.