Police in Melbourne have identified a man as a person of interest following the firebombing of a rabbi’s car on Christmas Day in what authorities are treating as a suspected antisemitic attack.
Detectives from the Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit are investigating the suspicious vehicle fire, which occurred in St Kilda East, a suburb with a significant Jewish population. The incident has raised serious concerns about religiously motivated violence, particularly as Australia continues to grapple with heightened security fears following recent attacks.
Police Seek 47-Year-Old Man
Victoria Police have publicly named 47-year-old John Argento, urging him to contact authorities as soon as possible. Investigators believe he may be able to assist with inquiries or may be connected to the incident.
Police released images of the man and are appealing to the public for information about his whereabouts or any details that could assist the investigation.
“Detectives believe this man may have information crucial to understanding the circumstances of the fire,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.
Suspicious Car Fire on Christmas Day
Emergency services were called to the scene early on Christmas Day after reports of a vehicle engulfed in flames. The car, which belongs to a local Jewish rabbi, was severely damaged.
Initial investigations determined the fire was deliberately lit using an incendiary device, leading police to classify the incident as a suspected arson attack. No injuries were reported, but the damage has deeply shaken the local community.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the rabbi was specifically targeted, but the nature of the attack and the timing have raised strong concerns about religious hatred.
Antisemitic Fears Amid National Tension
The attack comes at a highly sensitive time, just over a week after a terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, where two alleged gunmen opened fire on crowds during a Chanukah celebration. That attack left the nation in shock and prompted widespread condemnation.
Chanukah ended on December 22, only days before the Christmas Day firebombing in Melbourne, intensifying fears of escalating antisemitic violence across Australia.
Jewish community leaders have described the St Kilda East incident as deeply disturbing, warning that it reflects a growing pattern of intimidation and hatred.
Increased Security Measures
In response to the attack, police have increased patrols around synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centres in Victoria. Authorities say they are taking all threats seriously and are committed to protecting religious communities.
“We will not tolerate acts of hatred or violence based on religion,” the police spokesperson said. “Anyone responsible will be pursued and held accountable.”
Community and Political Reaction
Leaders across the political spectrum have condemned the attack, calling it an unacceptable act of hatred. Community organisations have urged calm while demanding stronger action against antisemitism.
“This is not just an attack on one individual—it is an attack on the values of tolerance and safety that Australia stands for,” one Jewish community representative said.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are continuing to examine CCTV footage from the area and are forensically analysing the scene. Police have asked anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour in St Kilda East on Christmas Day to come forward.
Members of the public with information about John Argento or the incident are encouraged to contact Victoria Police or Crime Stoppers.
Conclusion
The Christmas Day firebombing has added to growing anxiety among Australia’s Jewish community at a time when religious tensions are already high. As investigations continue, authorities are under pressure to swiftly identify those responsible and prevent further acts of hate-driven violence.
