Police are on the lookout for an individual believed to be linked to a firebombing incident, amidst ongoing unrest in Australia and worldwide following recent shootings at Bondi Beach. The antisemitic attack occurred shortly after a terror incident where two alleged gunmen targeted a Chanukah celebration in Sydney. The incident under investigation involves a suspicious car fire in St Kilda East, with Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives actively pursuing the case.
Authorities responded to reports of a car set ablaze on Balaclava Road early on December 25. Fortunately, no one was in the vehicle adorned with a Hanukkah billboard when it caught fire. As a precautionary measure, a woman and three children were evacuated from the adjacent property. Detectives have identified a person of interest in connection with the incident, urging 47-year-old John Argento to contact Victoria Police.
Argento, who has an outstanding arrest warrant for deception-related offenses, is known to have a transient lifestyle, frequenting inner suburbs of Melbourne. Described as 185cm tall with a thin build, blue eyes, grey hair, and fair complexion, Argento is the subject of an intensified search by authorities. Although the arson is considered a targeted attack, there is no indication that Argento poses a specific threat to the Jewish community.
In addition to the arson case, investigators seek to question Argento about a subsequent car break-in. Despite extensive searches involving various police units, no arrests have been made yet. The ongoing investigation includes forensic analysis of the vehicle by arson experts, with heightened patrols in the area to ensure public safety.
Authorities urge anyone with information or footage related to the incident to contact Crime Stoppers. Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert of the Southern Metro Region emphasized the importance of the investigation in light of its impact on the Jewish community. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the acts of violence, expressing solidarity with the affected communities and offering federal assistance.