URGENT UPDATE: Investigators have identified a person of interest, John Argento, in connection with a suspected arson attack on a vehicle displaying a Hanukkah sign. The incident occurred early on 25 December 2023, outside a rabbi’s home in Melbourne. Police are actively seeking to question the 47-year-old as part of their ongoing investigation.
The car was set ablaze during the early hours of Christmas Day, prompting emergency services to evacuate a woman and three children from the vicinity as a precaution. Fortunately, no one was inside the vehicle at the time of the fire. Assistant Police Commissioner Chris Gilbert emphasized the significant emotional toll such an attack inflicts on the Jewish community, stating, “We understand the devastating impact this type of offence has on our Jewish community and we are continuing to prioritize this investigation.”
Authorities have released a photo of Mr. Argento, describing him as 185 cm tall, thin, with blue eyes, grey hair, and a fair complexion. While police are trying to locate him, they confirm there is no current indication he poses a specific risk to the Jewish community. They also wish to speak with him regarding an unrelated car break-in that occurred about 20 minutes after the arson incident.
In a related escalation of anti-Semitic incidents, the Australian Federal Police recently charged an 18-year-old for performing Nazi salutes and distributing extremist propaganda at various locations, including a Canberra shopping centre. This alarming trend highlights a growing concern surrounding anti-Semitism in Australia. Stephen Nutt, assistant commissioner of the Australian Federal Police, remarked, “Anti-Semitism is a cancer, it is something that needs to be dealt with and removed from Australian society.”
The recent arson attack, paired with the public displays of hate, has reignited calls for significant changes in how anti-Semitism is addressed in Australia. Jeremy Leibler, president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, stated that the attack was meant to instill fear among visibly Jewish individuals, urging the government to treat anti-Semitism as a pressing public safety issue.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the arson as “beyond comprehension” but has refrained from calling for a royal commission into the incident. Instead, he supports a New South Wales inquiry and has prioritized a review of intelligence and law enforcement procedures to prevent such acts of violence in the future.
In response to the alarming rise in hate crimes, the Victorian government has pledged to enhance measures against such offenses, mirroring New South Wales’ commitment to prioritize public safety following recent attacks.
As this investigation continues to unfold, authorities are urging anyone with information about the arson or Mr. Argento’s whereabouts to come forward. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as the community grapples with the implications of these heinous acts.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as police work to bring the responsible parties to justice.
