Mississippi synagogue arson leaves sacred artifacts at risk as Torahs are saved
A 19-year-old suspect confessed to setting fire to Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, citing the building’s Jewish ties. The blaze damaged the synagogue’s library, melted the Tree of Life brass plates, and damaged a Moses sculpture, while hundreds of prayer books were charred. The Torah scrolls were removed for safekeeping and air-out; they will be repaired and returned to kosher status, or buried respectfully if unusable. Restoration is expected to take about a year as the community rebuilds and churches offer support while authorities continue investigations.