A 34-year-old man has been charged with reckless conduct endangering life after he allegedly set fire to the East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation while around 20 worshippers were inside.
Victoria Police allege the man, from Toongabbie in NSW, entered the synagogue grounds around 8pm on Friday night. According to police, he poured a flammable liquid on the front door and set it alight before fleeing on foot along Albert Street.
“There were approximately 20 people inside the synagogue at the time of the incident taking part in Shabbat,” police said in a statement. Thankfully, everyone was able to evacuate safely and no injuries were reported. Firefighters contained the blaze to the building’s entrance.
Suspect Arrested in Melbourne CBD
Police arrested the man on Saturday night in Melbourne’s CBD. He was interviewed and charged with multiple offences, including reckless conduct endangering life, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, criminal damage by fire, and possession of a controlled weapon. He will appear before the Bail and Remand Court today.
Detectives are continuing to investigate whether the incident should be classified as terrorism. “Police will examine the intent and ideology of the person charged to determine if the incident is in fact terrorism,” Victoria Police said.
Police released an image of the suspect wearing a dark jumper, black pants, and a black beanie. An arson chemist will examine the scene, and CCTV footage and other evidence are being reviewed.
Premier Condemns Attack as “Anti-Semitic”
Premier Jacinta Allan called the incident “disgraceful” and described it as an act of anti-Semitism. “Any attack on a place of worship is an act of hate, and any attack on a Jewish place of worship is an act of anti-Semitism,” she said. “That this happened on Shabbat makes it all the more abhorrent.”
Rabbi Dovid Gutnik from the East Melbourne Synagogue said the congregation was lucky the fire didn’t escalate. “There were children playing… it’s a family synagogue,” he said. “It could have been a lot worse because those doors are wooden and there’s carpet, so we were lucky the response was quick.”
Rabbi Gutnik added that while they already have good security measures, the incident highlights the emotional toll such attacks can have on a faith community. “A place of worship shouldn’t need extreme security, but we’ll do what we must to keep our community safe,” he said.
Police and Community Leaders Speak Out
Victoria Police emphasised that there is no place for anti-Semitic or hate-based behaviour in the community. “Police are working closely with the synagogue and the broader Jewish community to ensure they have the support they need,” the statement said.
Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, called for strong action against those responsible. “These events are a severe escalation directed towards our community. We urge all sides of politics and all Australians to condemn these deplorable crimes,” he said.
Separate Protest Turns Violent
In a separate incident, about 70 protesters gathered on Swanston Street at 5:30pm Friday to demonstrate against police presence at public rallies. Police say a smaller group later marched to popular Israeli restaurant Miznon on Hardware Lane, where the front door was smashed and offensive chants were shouted. A 28-year-old from Footscray was arrested for hindering police and released on summons. Others were identified for possible follow-up.
Miznon confirmed they remained open the next day despite the damage.
Police also investigated a third, unrelated incident in which three cars were set on fire at a Greensborough business early Saturday morning. The vehicles and a wall were also covered in graffiti. Police say they have not ruled out any links between the incidents but currently have no evidence connecting them.
Leaders Call for Calm
Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece said he was “angry” and “dismayed” by the events. “Everyone deserves the right to enjoy the most basic human acts, like practising your faith or enjoying a meal, without being attacked or vilified,” he said.
Victoria Police reminded the public that while peaceful protest is supported, antisocial and violent behaviour will not be tolerated. “We are taking all three incidents incredibly seriously,” said Commander Dunstan.
#Melbourne synagogue fire, #East Melbourne Hebrew Congregation, #Victoria Police
