Mississippi Man Arrested for Arson at Beth Israel and Jewish Institute
A Mississippi man was arrested for allegedly setting fire to the Beth Israel Congregation and the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life. The incident occurred in Madison, Mississippi, early on January 10, 2026. The alleged arson was reported by various officials, including Attorney General Pamela Bondi and U.S. Attorney J.E. Baxter Kruger for the Southern District of Mississippi.
Details of the Arson Incident
Stephen Spencer Pittman, 19, is accused of using gasoline to ignite the fire, which caused extensive damage to both institutions. CCTV footage reportedly captured a hooded individual inside the building right before the fire started.
- Date of Incident: January 10, 2026
- Location: Madison, Mississippi
- Key Locations Affected:
- Beth Israel Congregation, established in 1860
- Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life
Official Responses
Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the act as anti-Semitic violence, stating it has no place in America. She emphasized the commitment of the Department of Justice to protect Jewish Americans from such hatred. FBI Director Kash Patel reiterated the importance of safeguarding communities from targeted attacks.
U.S. Attorney J.E. Baxter Kruger, along with FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff, expressed strong condemnation. They underscored their dedication to pursuing severe charges against Pittman.
Legal Proceedings Against Pittman
Pittman faces charges under Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i), which pertains to the arson of property involved in interstate commerce. If convicted, he could receive a prison sentence ranging from five to twenty years.
The ongoing investigation involves multiple agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Allen is leading the prosecution.
Community Impact
The fire significantly impacted the Beth Israel Congregation, rendering it inoperable for an indefinite period. The Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life serves Jewish communities across 14 states, providing essential services and educational programs.
Local authorities and the FBI urge community vigilance, calling on citizens to report suspicious activities. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a broader initiative focused on curbing violent crime and ensuring community safety.
As legal proceedings continue, it is crucial to remember that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
