A man faces criminal charges after being accused of damaging the iconic Brisbane Synagogue in Australia on Friday night.
The suspect, a 32-year-old from Sunnybank, has not been publicly named but is facing multiple charges. These include willful damage, engaging in serious vilification or committing a hate crime, operating a vehicle dangerously, and possessing illegal drugs and related paraphernalia, according to Queensland Police.
Authorities reported that shortly after 7:15 p.m. local time on Friday, a black Toyota Hilux utility truck crashed into and destroyed the synagogue’s gates on Margaret Street, before fleeing the scene.
Police were able to swiftly locate the vehicle and apprehended the driver without any complications.
Late on Friday, a small truck rammed into the Brisbane Synagogue in Brisbane, Australia. (Google Maps)
Officials confirmed there were no injuries resulting from the incident.
The suspect, who is believed to have acted alone, will face Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday.
There is no ongoing threat to the community.
According to Queensland police, the suspect is facing several charges, including a hate crime. (Robbie Stephenson/PA Images via Getty Images)
“The Queensland Police Service is focused on ensuring community safety and continues to support and engage with all local religious communities,” the agency wrote.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said he was briefed on the incident, noting the incident was “very distressing for the Jewish community in Queensland.”
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli called the incident “very distressing for the Jewish community in Queensland.”
Crisafulli added he spoke with Jewish leaders, as well as police, and assured Queenslanders the incident is being taken seriously.
“This is another signal as to why we have put strong laws before Parliament to protect all people where they worship,” Crisafulli wrote in a statement on X. “We are going through the process and I fully intend to have them passed during the next sitting of Parliament.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
