Suspected Arson Causes $25,000 in Damage to Austin Synagogue

Austin leaders gathered earlier this week to demonstrate solidarity with the city’s Jewish community after a string of antisemitic incidents including an expected arson to Texas’ oldest synagogue.

The nonprofit Interfaith Action of Central Texas organized a Monday, Nov. 1 demonstration after a fire around 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31 caused $25,000 in damage to the main entrance of Congregation Beth Israel’s synagogue. Fire investigators believe the blaze was deliberately set. No injuries or arrests have been reported.

Austin Fire Capt. Brandon Jennings said they received tips about who committed the arson. Investigators are also reviewing security video of the incident, he said.

The arson suspect used a jerry can style of container as an accelerant, firefighters said.

KXAN News reported that leaders at the synagogue sent an email to members that said all ceiling tiles in the sanctuary have to be removed and the wooden doors will need to be replaced.