Teenager charged after December firebombing of Montreal synagogue

The Congregation Beth Tikvah in Dollard-des-Ormeaux was the target of an arson attack on Dec. 18, 2024. A 19-year-old suspect was arrested Wednesday, according to Montreal police. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press)

Montreal police (SPVM) have arrested a suspect in connection with an arson attack on a synagogue in Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO) last December.

A nearby Jewish community building, the Federation CJA’s West Island office, was also vandalized at the time.

According to the SPVM, the suspect, a 19-year-old man, was arrested in the Anjou borough on Wednesday. Investigators also searched a residence where they seized various items of evidence.

Court records show that Mohamed Ilyess Akodad is facing charges of arson, mischief and attempts and accessories after the fact.

“Today’s news, that an individual has been charged in connection with the firebombing of Beth Tikvah Synagogue and Federation CJA’s West Island campus last December, is a much-needed development,” said Eta Yudin, the Quebec vice-president of the CIJA.

On Dec. 18, Montreal police received a call reporting that a the Congregation Beth Tikvah in DDO was on fire. When police arrived on the scene, they were able to bring the blaze under control using a fire extinguisher.

Authorities found an incendiary object on the scene and witnesses reported to police seeing a suspect flee the scene after the fire had started.

The building sustained minor damage.

Police said that despite the arrest their investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact 911 or their local police station.