A 19-year-old man has been charged with car theft following an arson attack on a synagogue in Adelaide, Victoria, as authorities investigate potential hate crime links to the incident.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, allegedly stole a vehicle that was later used to set fire to the Adelaide Street Synagogue in the early hours of Wednesday morning. Emergency services contained the blaze, but the historic building sustained significant damage.
Police probe possible hate crime motive
Victoria Police confirmed they are treating the attack as suspicious and are examining whether antisemitic motives played a role. "While the car theft charge has been laid, our investigation into the arson continues with all possible angles being considered," a police spokesperson stated.
Community leaders express outrage
Jewish community representatives have condemned the attack, calling it "a disturbing act of violence against a place of worship". Security at synagogues across Victoria has been heightened following the incident.
The accused teenager is expected to appear in Melbourne Magistrates' Court later this week. Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward with any information about suspicious activity near the synagogue before the attack.
