3rd and Last Suspect Charged Over Adass Synagogue Arson Attack

The act was part of a wave of anti-Semitism that swept Australia leading up to the Bondi massacre.

Damage is seen following a firebombing at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Melbourne, Australia on Dec. 9, 2024. AAP Image/Yumi Rosenbaum

A third man has been charged over the fire at Adass Israel Synagogue in December 2024.

The 20-year-old from Airport West in Victoria was arrested by the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT).

He has been charged with arson, endangering life, and theft of a motor vehicle. The arson charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment, while the other offences have 10-year maximums.

Victorian police say he is the third and last suspect in the case, alleging the three men broke into the Ripponlea synagogue and deliberately set the fire.

Last year, under Operation Hilfield, a 21-year-old from Werribee and a 20-year-old from Meadow Heights were arrested and charged in relation to the arson, and a Melton South man, aged 20, was charged with stealing a car that was used to drive to the synagogue on Dec. 6, 2024.

“Today, the Victoria JCTT is able to confirm that we have identified and charged those we allege attended the synagogue and carried out this deplorable attack,” AFP Assistant Commissioner Peter Crozier said.

“There is no understating the fear and genuine sense of unease this crime created in our society.

“Operation Hilfield reached this point today thanks to significant assistance from the community. Now, we again ask the community for their help. We can reveal that we believe some individuals have actively lied to the JCTT, likely in an attempt to hinder our investigation.”

Information can be provided by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at the Crime Stoppers Victoria website. A confidential report can also be made to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.