Police in Victoria have shared video footage of a man suspected of vandalizing a synagogue in the city’s downtown area. The incident took place on August 2, early in the morning.
The suspect, dressed all in black and riding a bicycle, is accused of spray-painting hateful messages on the outside of Congregation Emanu-El. The graffiti included references to genocide, sparking concern among the community.
Earlier, police had released a still image of the man but now hope the video will help identify him more quickly. The vandalism happened near the corner of Blanshard Street and Pandora Avenue, in the 1400 block.
City workers promptly removed the graffiti soon after it was reported.
The investigation is ongoing. VicPD’s General Investigation Services section is leading the case, working closely with the department’s hate crimes coordinator.
Authorities are asking the public for help. Anyone who recognizes the man in the video or has information related to the case is urged to contact police. Calls can be made to the non-emergency number at 250-995-7654, extension 1, referencing file number 25-29663.
