A car belonging to a Rabbi, adorned with a “Happy Hanukkah” sign, was reportedly set ablaze in a driveway on Balaclava Road, St Kilda East, around 2:50 a.m. on December 25.
Fortunately, no one was inside the vehicle during the incident. However, as a safety measure, a woman and three children were evacuated from the nearby home.
In a swift response, detectives, including those from the Fugitive Squad, apprehended a 47-year-old man on Victoria Street in Richmond at approximately 9 a.m. today.
The suspect is currently in custody and will soon be questioned by authorities.
This arrest follows nearly two weeks after law enforcement disclosed information about a person of interest they sought in connection with the investigation.
Officials suspect that the arson was a targeted attack but have reassured the public that there is no wider threat to the Jewish community.
“We won’t fully understand the motives of this arsonist until we get them into custody,” Southern Metro Region Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert said.
