Stephen Spencer Pittman, 19, has been charged with arson after allegedly setting fire to the historic Beth Israel Congregation synagogue in Mississippi.
According to a federal affidavit, Pittman admitted targeting the building because of “the building’s Jewish ties” and referred to it as the “synagogue of Satan.”
The fire occurred in the early hours of Jan. 10, damaging the synagogue’s administrative office, library, and several Torah scrolls, but causing no injuries.
Security footage reportedly shows Pittman masked and hooded, using a gas container to start the blaze, USA Today has reported.
Authorities have indicated that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
