Police investigate attempted arson at Lake View synagogue

Chicago police are investigating an attempted arson against a synagogue in Lake View on the North Side.

The incident occurred sometime between 9:00 p.m. Saturday and 8:30 a.m. Sunday at the Anshe Sholom B’nai Israel Congregation in the 500 block of West Melrose Street. Three broken glass bottles containing an unknown substance and charred black cloth towels were found outside of the synagogue, Chicago police said.

There have been no reported injuries or damage to buildings at this time, police said.

All Jewish schools, businesses and synagogues will receive special attention from police as the investigation continues, according to a tweet from spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.

David Goldenberg, midwest regional director of the Anti-Defamation League, said in a statement, “While thankfully the attacks did not cause any injuries or damage, this incident is yet another disturbing reminder of the recent escalation in attacks against Jews and Jewish institutions.”

Both the Arson Unit and Area North detectives are investigating.

In a separate incident, police are looking into reports of cars with smashed windows outside of synagogues in the Rogers Park district, Guglielmi said. Police are looking for different suspects in each incident.