A fire that damaged a classroom at the Chabad of Charlotte County late Friday night is now under criminal investigation and is being investigated as a potential hate crime. A member of the congregation, who spent the day cleaning up, walked through the charred remains of the classroom and said the act is extremely hurtful. Punta Gorda police and fire departments responded to a structure fire near West Henry Street around 10 p.m. Friday. A congregation member spoke off-camera and said someone threw a flammable object at a window, shattering the glass and spreading kerosene inside a room used for youth online classes. Outside the building, the letter โJโ was found spray-painted in black โ a disturbing sign that has prompted a criminal investigation.
Despite the incident, Chabad leaders say Rosh Hashanah services will go on as scheduled Sunday and throughout the week. The Anti-Defamation League of Florida, the Secure Community Network, and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties issued a joint statement regarding the fire. “ADL Florida, the Secure Community Network (SCN), and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties are deeply concerned about Fridayโs fire and vandalism at Chabad of Charlotte County,” the statement said. “Our hearts go out to Rabbi Jacobson, his family, and the entire community during this difficult time. We have been in touch with Chabad staff to offer our support and stand in solidarity as they begin the rebuilding process. Police are asking anyone with information to contact the Punta Gorda Police Department.
