Beth Israel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Mississippi, suffered extensive damage following a fire that authorities allege was intentionally set by a 19-year-old man. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, March 15, 2024, and has resulted in the indefinite closure of the historic building, which has served Jackson’s Jewish community for over 60 years.
According to the FBI, the suspect, Stephen Spencer Pittman, confessed to the arson, citing the synagogue’s Jewish ties as his motive. This marks the second time the synagogue has faced an attack by fire; it was previously bombed in 1967 by members of the Klu Klux Klan, who also targeted the rabbi’s home shortly after. The synagogue is also the home of the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life, which provides support to Jewish communities across 13 southern states.
Pittman was apprehended at a local hospital after his father reported his confession to the FBI. Location data from a family tracking application corroborated his account. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported, as the building was unoccupied at the time of the fire.
Details of the Arson Incident
Pittman has been charged with “arson of property used in interstate commerce or used in an activity affecting interstate commerce,” as stated in a criminal complaint filed on March 18, 2024. He was found in the hospital with non-life-threatening burn injuries, according to Charles Felton, chief of investigations for the Jackson Fire Department’s Arson Investigation Division. During his initial court appearance, which took place via video from his hospital bed, Pittman, who had graduated high school and attended college, was represented by a public defender.
The fire broke out shortly after 3 a.m. on Saturday, with surveillance footage showing a hooded individual inside the synagogue pouring a flammable liquid. Pittman allegedly purchased gasoline from a nearby station before arriving at the synagogue, where he broke a window with an axe. Firefighters responded to find the building engulfed in flames, particularly in the library, which sustained severe damage. Investigators labeled the fire as “incendiary” based on the evidence collected.
Investigation and Community Response
Evidence against Pittman includes his confessions to both his father and police, supported by location data. The FBI also recovered a burned cell phone and a hand torch at the scene. In his interviews, Pittman referred to the synagogue as the “synagogue of Satan” and expressed satisfaction over the act, according to the complaint.
Local officials have condemned the attack. Zach Shemper, president of the congregation, stated he felt both “sadness” and “anger” upon learning of the fire. The synagogue provided a vital space for around 170 households as of 2021, and it played a significant role during the civil rights movement, aiding activists and supporting affected communities.
The damage inflicted is significant, with reports indicating that several Torah scrolls were destroyed. The American Jewish Committee characterized the incident as a “hateful act,” and the synagogue may take up to a year to repair. In the meantime, other local churches have offered their facilities to the congregation as they work to rebuild.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this act of violence, it remains committed to maintaining its presence in Jackson. Michele Schipper, a former president of the congregation, expressed her devastation but emphasized a determination to continue fostering a vibrant Jewish community in the area. The next court appearance for Pittman is scheduled for January 20, 2024, where he faces potential prison time ranging from five to 20 years if convicted.
