Local and federal agencies are investigating a hate crime in Clayton, Missouri, where three vehicles were damaged by intentional arson and antisemit,ic graffiti was discovered. The incident, which occurred near St. Louis, has been identified as a violent act targeting a resident. Authorities, including the FBI and St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit, are working to determine the perpetrator. The discovery of graffiti reading ‘Death to the IDF’ has raised concerns about escalating antisemitic violence. The city’s mayor condemned the act, emphasizing the community’s commitment to safety and inclusion.
The Jewish Federation of St. Louis also condemned the attacks, criticizing the normalization of antisemitic and anti-Israel rhetoric. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon commented on the reported ‘car bombings’ in St. Louis and alleged antisemitic vandalism, vowing to hold the perpetrators accountable for these violent acts. The FBI and local detectives are probing the incident, which involved antisemitic graffiti and three vehicles damaged by fire. The city’s police department responded to the scene after receiving a call around 3 a.m. on Tuesday, discovering three vehicles had been damaged by a fire, which they believe was intentionally set. While there were no injuries reported, the officers located antisemitic graffiti on a city roadway near St. Louis.
Police said the incident is being investigated as a hate crime, adding that a preliminary investigation suggests the victim was specifically targeted. The mayor emphasized that the community would not tolerate harassment, intimidation, or violence based on someone’s nationality, race, religion, or ideology. She called on residents to embrace the principles of respect, understanding, and inclusion that define the community. The incident has drawn attention from national media, with Fox News highlighting the growing concerns about antisemitic violence in the U.S.
Meanwhile, the Jewish Federation of St. Louis has condemned the attacks, stating that they are more than vandalism but represent a hateful act of intimidation. The federation criticized the normalization of antisemitic and anti-Israel rhetoric, linking the incident to broader issues of hate and intolerance. Local news station First Alert 4 reported that its drone captured video of the graffiti, which the station noted read ‘Death to the IDF.’ The station also mentioned that part of the message was directed at an individual, raising further concerns about targeted violence.
The investigation into the matter is ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Clayton Police Department Detective Bureau at 314-290-8414. The FBI and local detectives are working together to uncover the truth behind the hate crime, which has sparked a renewed focus on combating antisemitism and protecting vulnerable communities. With the incident continuing to draw national attention, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement.