Victoria Police Investigate Arson of 'Happy Chanukah' Sign Car in St Kilda East
Victoria Police have named John Argento, 47, as a person who may assist with their investigation into an arson attack involving a vehicle displaying a "Happy Chanukah" sign in St Kilda East, Melbourne. The incident took place around 2:50am on Christmas Day, when a vehicle-mounted mobile billboard was set alight in the driveway of a house.
No one was inside the car at the time, and the occupants of the house were evacuated as a precaution. Argento, who is known to police and has an outstanding arrest warrant, is believed to lead a transient lifestyle and frequents Melbourne's inner southern and northern suburbs.
Detectives are treating the arson as a targeted attack, though there is no indication that Argento poses a specific risk to the Jewish community. Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert emphasized that there is no indication of a broader threat to the Jewish community, and the investigation remains a priority.
Premier Jacinta Allan stated she was briefed by police and underscored ongoing safety measures and efforts to combat anti-Semitism in the state. This incident occurred less than two weeks after a mass shooting targeting Jews celebrating Hanukkah at Bondi Beach in Sydney.
