A suspect has been arrested for an alleged arson fire that severely damaged Beth Israel Congregation, Mississippi’s largest and oldest synagogue, in Jackson early Saturday morning, with no injuries reported. The blaze, ruled as arson, destroyed parts of the building including the library and several Torahs, highlighting a targeted attack amid rising antisemitism.
The fire erupted around 3 a.m. on January 10, 2026, at the historic Beth Israel Congregation, the only synagogue in Jackson. Authorities, including the Jackson Fire Department, quickly determined it was arson, leading to a joint investigation with local police, the FBI, and the Joint Terrorism Task Force. A suspect was taken into custody on January 11, though the name and specific charges have not been released, pending further inquiry into motives.
Damage was concentrated in the administrative office and library, where two Torahs were completely destroyed. Five other Torahs in the sanctuary sustained smoke damage, while one Torah that survived the Holocaust remained undamaged behind glass. The sanctuary’s interior, including floors, walls, and ceiling, was covered in soot, requiring extensive repairs to upholstery and carpeting. Congregants and leaders are assessing the full extent of the devastation.
Beth Israel Congregation has a profound historical significance, dating back 160 years. In 1967, it was bombed by the Ku Klux Klan in retaliation for its active role in the civil rights movement, including efforts to rebuild African-American churches. In 2018, the synagogue was honored with a marker on the Mississippi Freedom Trail for these contributions, underscoring its legacy of social justice.
Jackson Mayor John Horhn condemned the attack, stating that acts of antisemitism, racism, and religious hatred are treated as terror attacks against the city’s safety and freedom to worship. Jackson Fire Chief RaSean Thomas affirmed community solidarity, emphasizing that hate has no home in Jackson. These statements reflect official resolve to address the incident as a serious crime.
The congregation has received an outpouring of support from other local houses of worship, with churches offering space to continue regular services, including Shabbat observances. Zach Shemper, president of Beth Israel, vowed to rebuild with community backing, citing resilience in the face of adversity. Michele Schipper of the Institute of Southern Jewish Life, housed in the building, noted ongoing outreach and damage assessment.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing antisemitic incidents across the United States. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, labeled the fire a deliberate attack on the Jewish community and called for swift condemnation and action. Local Black Baptist pastor CJ Rhodes emphasized that such assaults on places of worship undermine shared moral values, fostering interfaith solidarity.
Investigators, including chief fire investigator Charles Felton, expressed surprise that such an event could happen in Jackson, reflecting broader community disbelief. The FBI’s involvement suggests potential classification as a hate crime or domestic terrorism. Moving forward, the congregation plans to proceed with worship while coordinating rebuilding efforts, as the arrest marks a step toward justice but raises ongoing concerns about religious safety in Mississippi.
