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Three Charged in Melbourne Synagogue Arson; Separate Car Fire Under Investigation

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Third Person Charged in Synagogue Arson; Separate Arrest for Christmas Day Car Fire

Synagogue Arson Investigation

The Incident

On December 6, 2024, a fire occurred at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea, Victoria. Police allege the fire was deliberately lit.

Charges

A 20-year-old man from Airport West, Victoria, has been charged with arson, conduct endangering life, and theft of a motor vehicle. He was already in custody on unrelated matters and was charged at the Metropolitan Remand Centre. He is scheduled to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 23, 2025.

The maximum penalty for arson is 15 years’ imprisonment. Theft of a motor vehicle and conduct endangering life each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.

Previous Charges

  • A 21-year-old man from Werribee was charged in July 2025 for allegedly breaking into the synagogue and igniting the fire.
  • A 20-year-old man from Melton South was charged for allegedly stealing a vehicle used to travel to the synagogue.
  • A 20-year-old man from Meadow Heights was charged with arson in August 2025.

Investigation Status

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Victoria Police have stated the investigation is ongoing and "highly complex." AFP Assistant Commissioner Peter Crozier stated that the attack appears to be politically motivated with international links. He also stated that some community members have provided false information and urged them to come forward.

Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

Separate Car Fire Incident

The Incident

On December 25, at approximately 2:50 AM, emergency services responded to a car fire in the driveway of a residence on Balaclava Road, St Kilda East. The vehicle, a silver sedan, had a billboard on its roof displaying the message "Happy Chanukah."

Police reported that no individuals were inside the car at the time. The rabbi's wife and three children were evacuated from the home as a precautionary measure. No physical injuries were reported.

Arrest and Charges

A 47-year-old man from Richmond, John Argento, was arrested on December 26 at approximately 9:00 AM on Victoria Street, Richmond, in connection with the car fire. He has been charged with:

  • Six counts of criminal damage by fire
  • Six counts of shop theft
  • Three counts of obtaining property by deception
  • Two counts of attempted theft from a motor vehicle
  • Theft from a motor vehicle
  • Burglary

He is scheduled to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court.

Responses

Rabbi Effy Block, from the Chabad of St Kilda, stated that the affected car belonged to a friend who is also a rabbi. Naomi Levin, chief executive of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria, issued a statement regarding community sentiment. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan confirmed she had been briefed by police regarding the incident.