Authorities are conducting a criminal investigation after the Jewish center at the University of Delaware was set on fire.
Firefighters arrived at the scene at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life after 11 p.m. Tuesday night, according to NBC10. They were able to bring the fire under control, and no one was reported to be harmed in the fire.
The Delaware fire marshal’s office said on Wednesday that the fire, which caused an estimated $75,000 in damage, was intentionally set.
Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio said investigators have found “no indication of a hate crime” but said that they are still “exploring all avenues,” Delaware Online reported.
“It is heartbreaking to learn the fire at the Chabad Center was set intentionally,” Newark Mayor Jerry Clifton wrote in a statement. “This is a sickening act of hostility that threatens the safety and security of our inclusive, welcoming neighborhoods. My thoughts are with the Jewish community and those affected by this tragedy. I have faith that the Newark Police Department and partner agencies will work tirelessly to identify the individual or individuals responsible and bring them to justice.”
People with information about the fire are encouraged to call the Delaware fire marshal at 302-323-5375 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
