Westmount synagogue arson suspect's hearing postponed for psychological evaluation
A 38-year-old man faces six charges including arson and possessing incendiary materials in connection with an attempted attack on Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom last week.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
A Quebec court has postponed the hearing for a suspect charged in last week's attempted arson at Temple Emanu-El-Beth Sholom in Westmount. The 38-year-old man is facing six charges: arson, possessing incendiary materials, using an explosive substance, and possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
Police were called early Friday after someone allegedly tried to set fire to the synagogue. The building was empty at the time, and quick action by emergency responders limited damage to minor burns and a broken window. The judge postponed the hearing Monday because a psychological evaluation requested by the Crown had not been completed.
The synagogue's rabbi and several Jewish organizations have emphasized that the incident reflects a broader crisis of antisemitism that society needs to address seriously. The arson attempt comes amid heightened tensions and incidents targeting Jewish institutions across the country.