Final suspect in 2024 Melbourne synagogue arson case indicted by Australian police

Australian police have indicted a third suspect in the arson attack on the East Melbourne synagogue, an incident that occurred over 18 months ago.

A joint counterterrorism team charged the 20-year-old local man with arson, causing damage, reckless endangerment of human life, and vehicle theft. These offenses carry a potential combined sentence of decades in prison.

According to the indictment, the suspect was one of three individuals who broke into the synagogue on December 6, 2024. They allegedly poured flammable material inside and set the building ablaze while dozens of worshippers were present. Although no injuries were reported, the damage was extensive.

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Today we can confirm that we have identified and charged all those we allege broke into the synagogue and carried out this appalling attack. The fear and genuine unease this crime created in our community should not be underestimated.

With this latest indictment, all three individuals accused of directly participating in the arson have now been charged. An additional person is also accused of stealing the vehicle used in the attack. Assistant Commissioner Peter Crozier stated that all alleged perpetrators of the "appalling attack" have been identified and charged, emphasizing the fear and unease the crime caused.

Despite the charges being purely criminal, without terrorism or antisemitism counts, the case has sparked significant outrage and is viewed as part of a broader wave of antisemitism. Some members of Australia's Jewish community have expressed frustration over the investigation's pace and what they perceive as a lack of seriousness in addressing rising antisemitism.

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identifying those involved in antisemitic attacks in any form remains a top priority. Even after more than 18 months, we remain focused on bringing to justice all those who harm our community.