A 29-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to set fire to the Young Israel of West Hempstead, an Orthodox Jewish synagogue on Long Island, in a frightening overnight attack that has raised concerns about the safety of the Jewish community.

The suspect, identified as Azzm Khan of Lakeview, New York, allegedly attacked the synagogue’s glass entrance with a bat before attempting to ignite a fire outside the building.

According to a letter sent by synagogue leadership to congregants, a passing motorist witnessed the attack at approximately 1:00 a.m. Thursday and immediately called police, who arrested the suspect at the scene.

“An individual struck the glass at the entrance with a bat, but the glass held and the individual was unable to gain entry through the door,” the synagogue wrote.

“The individual then brought a burning lawn sign to the entrance and attempted to start a fire near the building.”

Fortunately, the glass prevented the suspect from entering, and the flames extinguished themselves before spreading.

“The fire went out on its own,” synagogue leadership confirmed.

Police also reported that a bush outside the property was set ablaze during the incident.

The synagogue confirmed that its security team responded and that detectives obtained surveillance footage. Its Security Committee has been coordinating with Nassau County police and Homeland Security and plans to review existing security measures following the attempted attack.

Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks confirmed that she had personally contacted Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder.

“I have been in direct contact with Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder,” Nicks said. “The Nassau County Police Department is working alongside other law enforcement agencies to protect the congregation and surrounding community.”

Despite the frightening incident, Rabbi Joshua Goller made clear that the congregation would not be intimidated or allow the attack to disrupt Jewish life.

“Our community remains strong, united and undaunted,” Goller said. “Our doors will remain open and our services and programs will continue as scheduled.”

Khan was charged with third-degree arson, fifth-degree arson and two counts of third-degree criminal mischief.

Police confirmed that he was arraigned Thursday, October 22, in First District Court in Hempstead.

The incident comes amid heightened concerns about antisemitism on Long Island. Just days earlier, swastikas were discovered carved into seats aboard a Long Island Rail Road train serving the West Hempstead area.

Authorities have not publicly confirmed whether antisemitism motivated the alleged attack. Khan’s religious affiliation has also not been independently verified.

The investigation remains ongoing. Nassau County police said there were no known active threats to the congregation or surrounding community as of their latest statement.

What could have ended in tragedy was prevented by a secure synagogue entrance, an alert passing motorist and a swift law enforcement response. For the congregation, the message is clear: Jewish life will continue, and the synagogue’s doors will remain open.