Synagogue and Jewish Nonprofit Damaged in Mississippi Arson Attack

A 19-year-old man is accused of targeting the Beth Israel Congregation and the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life due to their "Jewish ties".

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 19-year-old man has been indicted on first-degree arson charges with a hate crime enhancement for setting fire to the only synagogue in Jackson, Mississippi, as well as the offices of the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life, a nonprofit organization located inside the synagogue. The attack damaged Torahs, an administrative office, and the synagogue's library, though no injuries were reported.

Why it matters

The attack highlights the lack of awareness about Jewish life in the American South and the challenges Jewish communities face in feeling visible and connected to the broader community. It also underscores the importance of building relationships and exposure between different religious and cultural groups to prevent hate-motivated crimes.

The details

According to officials, the suspect, Stephen Spencer Pittman, targeted the synagogue and nonprofit because of their "Jewish ties." The attack occurred just hours before the synagogue's Shabbat service. While the synagogue and nonprofit sustained damage, no deaths or injuries were reported.

  • The arson attack occurred in early January 2026.
  • On January 13, 2026, a Mississippi grand jury indicted Stephen Spencer Pittman on a first-degree arson charge with a hate crime enhancement.

The players

Stephen Spencer Pittman

A 19-year-old man who was indicted on first-degree arson charges with a hate crime enhancement for setting fire to the Beth Israel Congregation synagogue and the offices of the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life.

Beth Israel Congregation

The only synagogue in Jackson, Mississippi that was targeted in the arson attack.

Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life

A nonprofit organization with offices located inside the Beth Israel Congregation synagogue that was also damaged in the arson attack.

Stephen Goldring and Malcom Woldenberg

Benefactors of Tulane University's Goldring/Woldenberg Business Complex, who have also donated to other organizations such as the University of New Orleans, the Anti-Defamation League, Touro Infirmary, and the Jewish Children's Regional Service.

Kenneth Hoffman

The executive director of the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life, who said communities across the country have reached out to offer support following the attack.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Stephen Spencer Pittman out on bail.

The takeaway

This attack highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of Jewish communities in the American South, as well as the importance of building relationships and fostering dialogue between different religious and cultural groups to prevent hate-motivated crimes.