Video footage captures a man allegedly driving a truck into the Brisbane Synagogue, leading to charges of hate crime and other offenses against the suspect.
Newly released video footage shows the moment a man allegedly drove a truck into the gates of the Brisbane Synagogue in Australia on Friday evening, before fleeing the scene. The suspect, a 32-year-old man from Sunnybank whose name has not been disclosed, faces multiple charges, including willful damage, serious vilification or hate crime, dangerous operation of a vehicle, possession of dangerous drugs, and possession of utensils or pipes for use, according to Queensland Police.
The incident occurred shortly after 7:15 p.m. local time when a black Toyota Hilux utility truck struck the synagogue’s gates, located on Margaret Street. The footage reveals the truck approaching the place of worship, stopping briefly, and then reversing into the gates, causing one side to collapse.
After the impact, the driver is seen shifting the vehicle back into drive and speeding away in the same direction. Authorities quickly located the truck and apprehended the driver without incident. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the event.
The suspect is believed to have acted alone and is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday. Officials have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
This incident follows closely on the heels of a tragic event that occurred two months prior, when a father and son allegedly executed Australia’s deadliest terror attack, targeting a Jewish “Hanukkah by the Sea” celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14. Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, Sajid Akram, 50, are accused of killing 15 people and injuring dozens more.
Sajid Akram was killed during a confrontation with police, while Naveed Akram sustained critical injuries and faces numerous charges, including one count of committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder, and 40 counts of attempted murder, along with additional firearms and explosives offenses, as detailed on the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions’ website.
In the weeks following the massacre, tensions escalated when police clashed with anti-Israel demonstrators during a visit by Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Australia. At least 27 individuals were arrested, including 10 for allegedly assaulting officers, as violence erupted while authorities attempted to disperse thousands of protesters gathered near Sydney’s Town Hall.
During his visit, Herzog warned of the rising tide of antisemitism, labeling it a global emergency, and defended Israel’s actions in Gaza in response to questions regarding the protests.
This recent incident at the Brisbane Synagogue has raised concerns about safety and the prevalence of hate crimes, particularly against the Jewish community in Australia. According to Fox News Digital, the community remains vigilant as authorities continue to address these alarming trends.