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Florida Man Arrested in Punta Gorda Synagogue Arson Before Rosh Hashanah

Police say a family tip led to search warrants that produced the arrest in a hate-crime probe.

Overview

  • Blake Richard Hoover, 31, was arrested Monday and charged with arson and criminal mischief in the Sept. 19 fire at the Chabad of Charlotte County.
  • Investigators say relatives alerted authorities, leading to interviews and warrants for Hoover’s bedroom, vehicle, and electronic devices.
  • The late-night blaze was contained to a single classroom and caused no injuries, according to officials.
  • Detectives reported signs of foul play including a cut screen, evidence of an accelerant, a broken window, and spray-painted “J” graffiti, while a court affidavit quotes Hoover’s mother describing anti-Jewish animus.
  • Authorities are increasing patrols for High Holy Days services, the cause remains under investigation, and Hoover’s first court appearance was scheduled for Tuesday morning.