A 32-year-old Australian man was arrested Friday after allegedly ramming a van into the gates of a synagogue in Brisbane during Shabbat prayers, authorities said.
Security footage aired by local media shows a black van slowing near the synagogue, making a turn and then accelerating in reverse into the front gate. A person standing behind the gate can be seen running to safety moments before impact. No one inside the synagogue was injured.
Footage of the incident
(Video: ABC)
Queensland Police said the suspect deliberately targeted the city’s main synagogue, where members of the Jewish community were gathered for Shabbat services. Using surveillance footage, officers identified the vehicle and arrested the driver within hours.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court. Police said he is likely to face charges including willful damage, a hate crime offense, dangerous driving and possession of a dangerous drug.
However, a local police inspector told Australia’s ABC that the case is “not being investigated as terrorism.” Authorities believe the suspect did not attempt to enter the building but intended to damage the gates. Police are examining whether mental health issues and intoxication were contributing factors and said the man appears to have acted alone.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as “deeply concerning,” saying he had spoken with police and Jewish community leaders and stressing that the matter is being taken seriously.
Libby Burke, vice president of the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, said the community was distressed.
“A synagogue is a sacred place of prayer, reflection and community,” she said. “Our elderly, our children and all Jews in Queensland must be able to attend synagogue and live without fear.”
The incident comes amid a surge in antisemitic incidents across Australia since the October 7 massacre and the war in Gaza. Last month, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the establishment of a Royal Commission to investigate rising antisemitism nationwide.