Mississippi arson suspect in custody after admitting to targeting synagogue in anti-Semitic attack

The FBI claimed Monday that the suspect in an arson at a Mississippi synagogue over the weekend has admitted to committing the crime and that it was targeted because it was a Jewish house of worship.

Stephen Pittman, 19, allegedly told his father about the crime, which took place on Saturday at the Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, and has been charged with maliciously damaging or destroying a building by means of fire or an explosive, according to the Associated Press. 

Pittman's father reportedly turned his son in to authorities after observing burn marks on his son’s ankles, hands and face.

“Every American has a fundamental right to live and worship free from violence and fear,” FBI Director Kash Patel said in a statement. “The FBI will never waver in our mission to protect Jewish communities from targeted anti-Semitic attacks and will work to hold accountable anyone who engages in these types of violent acts.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi said she has directed authorities to seek “severe penalties for this heinous act," and vowed to help protect Jewish Americans from hatred. 

The crime took place at the same synagogue that was bombed by the Ku Klux Klan in 1967. The latest arson damaged the 165-year-old synagogue’s library and administrative offices and destroyed at least two Torahs. At least five other Torahs are being assessed for smoke damage, and one that was protected by glass was not damaged, the congregation said.

“This news puts a face and name to this tragedy, but does not change our resolve to proudly — even defiantly — continue Jewish life in Jackson in the face of hatred,” the Beth Israel Congregation wrote in a statement to the Associated Press.

Pittman is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary and detention hearing on Jan. 20. He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage