A fire at a Florida synagogue is being investigated as a potential act of arson and a hate crime, according to local authorities.
Police and emergency personnel responded to a fire at the Chabad of Charlotte County synagogue in Punta Gorda, Florida, late Friday night, where crews quickly extinguished the blaze, officials said.
“We are disgusted and deeply saddened that anyone would harbor such hatred as to harm a place where children learn and where members of our Jewish community gather in peace. This kind of crime has no place in our town,” Punta Gorda Police Chief Pamela Smith told ABC News.
“In the days ahead, you will see increased patrols in the area, and we will have officers present at the Chabad during High Holy Days services. We want to assure our community, especially our Jewish community, that their safety is our top priority,” Smith added…