Man arrested after attempted arson at Long Island synagogue

Azzm Khan, 29, was arrested by Nassau County Police following an attempted arson at the Young Israel of West Hempstead synagogue in Long Island. According to investigators, Khan arrived at the premises around 1:00 a.m. carrying a club and attempted to smash the building's glass entrance doors.

When the doors remained intact, Khan allegedly tore down a yard sign, set it on fire, and attempted to push the burning object underneath the doors to ignite the interior. The fire eventually extinguished itself in nearby bushes without causing damage to the building or injuries to anyone. Security footage reportedly shows Khan using his cellphone on speakerphone during the incident, appearing to receive instructions from another individual.

The Young Israel of West Hempstead, an Orthodox congregation, has contacted the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and urged community members to remain vigilant. Local security forces have increased protection around community institutions following the event.