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Teen Baseball Player Arrested for Arson at Historic Synagogue in Mississippi

KVIA•Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 10:56 PM•CNN

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A 19-year-old named Stephen Spencer Pittman has been arrested for setting fire to the Beth Israel Congregation, Mississippi’s oldest synagogue. The incident occurred early Saturday morning, shortly after Pittman posted an antisemitic meme on social media. Authorities were alerted when Pittman confessed to his father, leading to his arrest at a local hospital with burn injuries. If convicted of arson, he could face a prison sentence ranging from five to 20 years. The synagogue has sustained significant damage and will remain closed indefinitely, highlighting the ongoing issues of hate crimes in the community.

Key Details: • Pittman was arrested after confessing to his father about the arson. • The fire caused severe damage to the synagogue, which will be closed indefinitely. • Pittman faces potential prison time of 5 to 20 years if convicted. • Surveillance footage captured the arsonist wearing a hooded sweatshirt. • The incident has sparked condemnation from local educational institutions.

community education arson synagogue hate-crime

People & Organizations

FBIBeth Israel CongregationJackson Fire DepartmentStephen Spencer PittmanJacksonMadison CountySt. Joseph Catholic SchoolCoahoma Community College

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