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A man is facing criminal charges following an incident on Friday night where the historic Brisbane Synagogue in Australia was allegedly vandalized.
The individual, a 32-year-old from Sunnybank whose identity remains undisclosed, has been charged with multiple offenses, including willful damage, committing a serious vilification or hate crime, operating a vehicle dangerously, and possessing illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia, according to Queensland Police.
Officials reported that the incident occurred shortly after 7:15 p.m. local time, when a black Toyota Hilux utility truck crashed into and destroyed the gates of the synagogue on Margaret Street, before fleeing the scene.
Police swiftly located the vehicle and arrested the driver without any further complications.
Late Friday, the Brisbane Synagogue was struck by a small truck. (Source: Google Maps)
No one was injured during the incident, according to officials.
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.