Pittsburgh Police Boost Patrols at Religious Sites After Antisemitic Radio Messages

Councilmember says officers will increase presence in wake of disturbing broadcasts

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Pittsburgh police are increasing patrols at religious institutions in the city's Zone 4 district following the broadcast of antisemitic messages over law enforcement communication channels. The messages, which included a death threat against the mayor and Nazi songs, have prompted an active investigation by local and federal authorities.

Why it matters

The disturbing antisemitic broadcasts have raised concerns about the security of religious institutions and the broader issue of hate speech targeting minority communities in Pittsburgh. The increased police presence aims to reassure residents and deter any further incidents.

The details

Starting on Monday, unknown individuals were able to access the analog police radio system and transmit messages featuring a robotic voice making a death threat against Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor, as well as Nazi songs and pro-Hitler rhetoric. Councilmember Barb Warwick said the messages were "frightening" and that officers from the police bureau's Zone 4 will now be increasing patrols around religious institutions in neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, and Greenfield.

  • The antisemitic messages began broadcasting on Monday.
  • Councilmember Warwick announced the increased police patrols on Tuesday.

The players

Barb Warwick

A Pittsburgh city councilmember who represents Zone 4, which includes several neighborhoods with a high concentration of religious institutions.

Corey O'Connor

The mayor of Pittsburgh, who was the target of a death threat in the antisemitic radio broadcasts.

Allegheny County Emergency Services

The agency that oversees the police radio system, which has requested assistance from the Allegheny County Police Department and the Federal Communications Commission in investigating the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Pittsburgh's ethnic and religious diversity is our strength and our asset. We must protect it as we continue to reject hate in all its forms.”

— Barb Warwick, Pittsburgh City Councilmember (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The investigation into the source of the antisemitic radio messages remains active and ongoing, with assistance from county and federal authorities. The police have moved communications to a more secure channel while they work to identify the perpetrator.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for vigilance in protecting religious institutions and minority communities from hate speech and threats. The increased police presence aims to reassure residents and deter any further acts of antisemitism or extremism in Pittsburgh.