For Immediate Release

Friday, May 17, 2019

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

*Media Advisory*

Arlington Police Department to Provide Update on Investigation Into Fires at Rabbi’s Home

ARLINGTON — Acting Chief of Police Julie Flaherty reports that the Arlington Police Department will provide an update for members of the public and the press as authorities are engaged in an ongoing investigation into two fires at a rabbi’s home in east Arlington.

WHO: 

• Acting Chief of Police Julie Flaherty
• Town Manager Adam Chapdelaine
• Director of Health and Human Services Christine Bongiorno
• David Swanson, Co-Chair of the Arlington Human Rights Commission
• Rabbi Avi Bukiet, Chabad Center for Jewish Life
• State Sen. Cindy Friedman
• A representative from the Anti-Defamation League

WHERE: 

Arlington Police Department, second floor, 112 Mystic St.

WHEN: 

Friday, May 17, at noon

WHAT: 

Arlington town officials and law enforcement leaders local, state and federal agencies will provide an update on the investigation into two suspicious fires at the home of Rabbi Avi Bukiet, who hosts religious services at the residence.

Arlington Police, Massachusetts State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the FBI are investigating suspicious fires that occurred Saturday, May 11, and yesterday evening.

Police and fire units responded to a Lake Street home at 9 p.m. yesterday for a report of a small fire. A police officer on patrol in the area arrived within about 30 seconds of the initial call. The officer noticed light flames coming from one side of the house, confined to the wood shingles. The officer used a handheld fire extinguisher to put out the flames.

There were no injuries as a result of either incident.

The ATF, Attorney General Maura Healey’s office and multiple municipal law enforcement agencies have also offered their support with the investigation.

The Arson Watch Reward Program is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that helps to solve this case.

Click here to access the surveillance footage from the first fire.

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