Nazi Symbols Spray-Painted On MPLS Synagogue, Vandal Spotted On Video

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minneapolis Police Department is investigating a hate crime at Temple Israel after Nazi symbols were spray-painted on the building Monday morning.

Surveillance footage captured a suspect defacing Temple Israel's doors and a pillar facing Emerson Avenue just before 7:20 a.m.

The individual — described as wearing a white hoodie with the hood up, a black face covering, black jogger pants, and tan boots — arrived and departed in a silver Honda Civic. The entire incident lasted less than two minutes, authorities said.

MPD emphasized its ongoing collaboration with Minneapolis synagogues, the Jewish Community Relations Council, and Temple Israel to address safety concerns. The department also stated it is actively reviewing surveillance footage from the area as part of its investigation.

"Hate crimes and crimes against our houses of worship are particularly troubling because they can result in real widespread fear and can contribute to potential division among our residents," said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.

"MPD has no tolerance for these types of crime and will be investigating this as a bias-based crime."

"I’ve seen blatant antisemitism increase dramatically over the last year, yet too few have had the courage to speak out against it, opting for the safety of silence," said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who is a congregant at Temple Israel.

"These nazi symbols were placed on my synagogue, where Minneapolis Jews congregate and deserve to feel safe. We don’t back down to fear."