Mississippi synagogue damaged by arson; one person charged

Authorities say an arson fire badly damaged Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, and local investigators have charged one person while federal agencies review whether to bring hate-crime charges.

An early-morning fire severely damaged Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi. Fire investigators have reported the blaze was deliberately set and the Jackson Fire Department filed arson charges. The congregation, founded in 1860, is Jackson's only synagogue and was previously targeted in a bombing during the 1960s civil rights era. Federal agencies are participating in the investigation. Reported facts: - The Jackson Fire Department and federal partners said the fire was arson and began in the synagogue's library area, with smoke and soot affecting other parts of the building. - One person was arrested after investigators received information from a local hospital; authorities reported the person confessed to involvement and local arson charges were filed. - The incident damaged several Torah scrolls and destroyed library contents, while a Torah that survived the Holocaust was reported to be protected and not damaged. - The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are involved and will determine whether to pursue federal hate-crime charges. Summary: The fire caused significant damage to the synagogue's library and some sacred items, and a local arson charge has been filed. A suspect was arrested and authorities reported a confession. Federal authorities are reviewing the case to decide whether to bring hate-crime charges; further federal action is undetermined at this time.