UPDATE: Victoria Police have launched an urgent manhunt for John Argento, a 47-year-old man wanted for questioning regarding a firebombing incident that occurred outside a Jewish family home in St Kilda East on December 25, 2023. The car was set ablaze at approximately 2:50 AM, igniting fear within the local Jewish community.
Authorities have identified Argento as a person of interest and describe him as approximately 195 centimetres tall, of thin build, with grey hair and possibly a grey beard. He is known to frequent the St Kilda, East St Kilda, and Caulfield areas but could be moving throughout other parts of Melbourne.
Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert held a media briefing at Caulfield Police Station, stating, “We understand he has had residences across Melbourne, but we currently cannot pinpoint his location.” Police believe he may be sleeping rough and are asking the public for any information leading to his apprehension.
The firebombing incident occurred in the driveway of a property on Balaclava Road, forcing residents, including young children, to evacuate. Gilbert reassured the public, stating that “no one was injured during that incident,” but the quick mobilization of investigators led them to identify Argento as a person of interest.
Police are not ruling out potential links to a theft from a motor vehicle in nearby streets shortly after the fire. Argento is wanted on an outstanding warrant for using a stolen credit card and may have been involved in other property offenses.
When asked if the incident could be racially or religiously motivated, Gilbert emphasized that authorities are keeping all possibilities open. “We look at everything on the table,” he stated. “Our responsibility is to ensure we explore every angle, including the potential motivations behind this act.”
The firebombing has heightened anxiety within Melbourne’s Jewish community, particularly following recent events, including the Bondi terror attack and two synagogue firebombings. Gilbert confirmed that police have met with the affected family to provide them with reassurance. “There’s no doubt they are a family who is now in fear,” he noted.
Police are proactively addressing community concerns, stating there are currently no specific threats to the Jewish community, but acknowledging heightened fears since the Bondi attack. “We have escalated our response across the state, ensuring community safety,” Gilbert assured.
In response to the incident, police have deployed significant resources, including officers working on Operation Trinity and Operation Park, along with uniformed members, detectives, and public order response teams.
Gilbert highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “Fires can escalate quickly, and this behavior poses a serious risk to the public. It’s dangerously unacceptable.”
Police are urging anyone with information regarding Argento’s whereabouts to contact triple zero immediately or provide tips to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or through their website.
As this investigation continues to develop, the community remains on high alert, emphasizing the importance of public vigilance in ensuring safety for all.
