A Mississippi synagogue, previously targeted by the Ku Klux Klan, was recently set ablaze by a suspect who confessed to his father about his intentional act, stated the FBI on Monday. The suspect, identified as Stephen Pittman, has been charged with damaging the Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, through arson. Pittman, 19 years old, referred to the synagogue as “the synagogue of Satan” and admitted to igniting the fire inside the historic Jewish place of worship.
During a federal court appearance via video call from a hospital bed, Pittman, with bandaged hands, disclosed his educational background, having graduated from high school and completed three college semesters. Prosecutors have indicated that if convicted, Pittman could face a prison sentence ranging from five to 20 years. The suspect is scheduled for a preliminary court hearing on January 20.
Following the incident, Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized seeking severe penalties for the crime. In response, the Beth Israel Congregation expressed determination to uphold Jewish life in Jackson despite the hateful act.
The arson caused significant damage to the synagogue’s library and administrative offices, with five Torahs undergoing assessment for smoke damage. Two Torahs in the library were destroyed, while one that survived the Holocaust remained intact. The synagogue’s president, Zach Shemper, pledged to reconstruct the building and mentioned offers from several churches to host worship services during the rebuilding process.
Beth Israel Congregation, established in 1860, faced previous attacks, including bombings by the KKK. The synagogue’s former rabbi, Rabbi Perry Nussbaum, was targeted due to his advocacy for civil rights. Governor Tate Reeves condemned the recent arson, emphasizing that such acts of antisemitism would not be tolerated. The incident reflects a broader trend of rising antisemitic violence in the U.S., as highlighted by Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League.
Law enforcement authorities were alerted by Pittman’s father, who received a confession from his son and urged him to return home. Pittman disclosed details of purchasing gasoline at a gas station and removing his vehicle’s license plate before committing the arson. The investigation revealed security camera footage of the suspect pouring liquid inside the synagogue before starting the fire.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the arson attack, solidarity and condemnation against antisemitic violence have been echoed by various officials and organizations.