A historic synagogue in Jackson, Mississippi, was severely damaged in an arson attack early Saturday, with surveillance footage capturing a suspect pouring gasoline before setting the blaze. The FBI has charged a 19-year-old man who confessed to targeting the building due to its Jewish ties, marking a disturbing act of antisemitic violence.
The Beth Israel Congregation, Mississippi’s oldest and largest synagogue, was attacked in the predawn hours of January 13, 2026, when an individual broke in and set fire to the library. Flames quickly spread, causing extensive damage to the historic building that has served Jackson’s Jewish community for over 150 years. Firefighters responded promptly, but the blaze left the structure blackened and inoperable, with no injuries reported aside from the suspect himself.
Surveillance video from inside the synagogue shows a hooded figure splashing liquid from a container throughout the interior before igniting it with a torch lighter. Authorities identified the suspect as Stephen Spencer Pittman, a 19-year-old from Madison County, who was arrested after his father contacted the FBI upon learning of his son’s confession. Pittman was found at a local hospital with burn injuries to his hands, face, and ankles, sustained during the incident.
In interviews with investigators, Pittman admitted to planning the attack, stating he targeted the synagogue because of its Jewish identity and even referred to it as the “synagogue of Satan.” His father provided crucial information, including location data from a family tracking app that placed Pittman at the scene, and text messages in which the suspect detailed his preparations, such as removing his license plate and noting the building’s security cameras.
The fire resulted in significant destruction, particularly to the library where it originated, and several Torah scrolls were lost in the flames. Zach Shemper, president of the congregation, estimated that repairs could take up to a year, forcing the community to seek temporary worship spaces. In a show of solidarity, multiple local churches have offered to host Beth Israel’s services until the synagogue can be restored.
Pittman faces serious legal consequences, including federal charges of arson affecting interstate commerce and state charges with hate crime enhancements. If convicted, he could receive between 5 to 20 years in federal prison and up to 60 years at the state level. His first court appearance was held via video from his hospital bed, and he is scheduled for a follow-up hearing on January 20.
This attack echoes a dark chapter in the synagogue’s history; in 1967, it was bombed by the Ku Klux Klan during the civil rights era, and the rabbi’s home was targeted shortly after. The building has long been a symbol of resilience, housing the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life and playing a role in interfaith and civil rights activism.
Community and political leaders have condemned the arson as a hate crime, with Mississippi Governor and Jackson Mayor emphasizing the need to combat antisemitism. The FBI emphasized that Pittman acted alone, and the quick arrest was facilitated by technological evidence and familial intervention. As the congregation grapples with the emotional and physical toll, members express determination to rebuild and maintain their presence in Jackson, sparking broader conversations about religious tolerance and safety.
