A fire at a Florida synagogue is being investigated as a potential act of arson and a hate crime, according to local authorities.
Police and emergency personnel responded to a fire at the Chabad of Charlotte County synagogue in Punta Gorda, Florida, late Friday night, where crews quickly extinguished the blaze, officials said.
"We are disgusted and deeply saddened that anyone would harbor such hatred as to harm a place where children learn and where members of our Jewish community gather in peace. This kind of crime has no place in our town," Punta Gorda Police Chief Pamela Smith told ABC News.
"In the days ahead, you will see increased patrols in the area, and we will have officers present at the Chabad during High Holy Days services. We want to assure our community, especially our Jewish community, that their safety is our top priority," Smith added.
No injuries were reported, but the fire came four days before the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah, which symbolizes the start of the Jewish New Year.
According to a member of the congregation, a flammable object was allegedly thrown through a window at the synagogue, and someone allegedly wrote the letter "J" in multiple sites outside the building.
Local authorities have identified a person of interest, but they have not released any details yet.
"We have developed a person of interest in the arson and hate crime that took place at the Chabad of Charlotte County on W. Henry St. in Punta Gorda on Friday night. We are actively working with the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office to advance the investigation at this time," the Punta Gorda Police Department told ABC News.
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office also released a statement stating that hate crimes will not be tolerated in the region.
"This type of crime will not be tolerated in Sarasota County. Any criminal activity directed at religious schools or institutions will be met with the full force and capability of this agency," the statement read.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) of Florida, the Secure Community Network (SCN), and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties issued a joint statement decrying the fire.
"ADL Florida, the Secure Community Network (SCN), and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties are deeply concerned about Friday's fire and vandalism at Chabad of Charlotte County," the joint statement said. "We are immensely grateful that no one was injured in the fire and extend our appreciation to the City of Punta Gorda Fire Department."
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Punta Gorda Police Department at 941-575-5500.