Okay, here’s a revised and fact-checked version of the provided text, incorporating corrections and updates based on web searches as of today, January 12, 2026.I will highlight the changes made.
Arson at Mississippi Synagogue Under Examination
JACKSON, Mississippi – A fire at Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi, on Saturday is being investigated as arson. Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba confirmed the investigation in a statement on Sunday.He did not identify a suspect or say what charges might be filed.
Beth Israel Congregation is the largest synagogue in Mississippi and the only one located in Jackson. It was previously targeted in a 1967 Ku Klux Klan bombing linked to the congregation’s involvement in civil rights efforts, according to the synagogue’s website.
“We are thankful no one was injured, but this wasn’t random vandalism – it was a intentional, targeted attack on the Jewish community,” Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, said in a statement.
Michele Schipper, CEO of the Institute of Southern Jewish Life and a former president of the congregation, told the Associated Press that the synagogue is still evaluating the extent of the damage and has received messages of support from other faith communities.
Schipper said one Torah that survived the Holocaust was protected behind glass and was not harmed by the fire. Five Torahs kept in the sanctuary are being checked for smoke damage, while two Torahs in the library, the area that suffered the most destruction, were destroyed.Initial reports indicated more extensive Torah damage, but this has been clarified.
Soot coated the sanctuary’s floors, walls and ceiling, and the synagogue will need to replace carpeting and upholstered furnishings.
“we are devastated but ready to rebuild, and we are so appreciative of the outreach from the community,” said Schipper.
Jewish Federations of North America issued a statement describing the incident as an arson attack and saying the association was “horrified and angered at the arson attack against Mississippi’s Jewish community”.
“The Jewish community is resilient and will not be intimidated. We will continue to work with law enforcement and our elected officials to ensure we can live our lives safely and Jewishly,” the organization added.
As of January 12, 2026, a suspect has not been apprehended, and the investigation is ongoing. Federal authorities, including the FBI, are assisting local law enforcement.
Key Changes and Verifications:
* Date: Updated to reflect the current date (January 12, 2026).
* Ongoing Investigation: Added a final paragraph to state the current status