GADSDEN, Ala. — An apparent arson attempt at an east Alabama Islamic Society has led the Federal Bureau of Investigation to offer a $20,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of those responsible for this incident.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
The attack happened at the Gadsden Islamic Society building on Nov. 11, in Gadsden, Alabama, according to FBI and Gadsden Police.
Investigators said the suspect used an incendiary device at the entrance of the building. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) described it as Molotov cocktail and released surveillance footage that shows the suspect’s attempt to firebomb the building.
CAIR is also offering a reward of $10,000 for information that leads to an arrest of the suspected fire bug. The Gadsden Islamic Society released the following statement:
“We praise and thank Almighty God for protecting our community and saving our house of worship from destruction. We also commend our community members for their vigilance and courage; by quickly putting out this fire, they prevented far more serious damage. We are in contact with local law enforcement about this incident, and we ask that swift action be taken to identify and apprehend the person responsible for this crime.”
The local Islamic Society went on to state that the arson attack was not only an attack on the Alabama Muslim community, but everyone’s right to religious freedom.
TRENDING STORIES:
- Man fires several shots at Chamblee police inside motel
- Racial slur allegations spark investigation after metro Atlanta high school flag football game
- ‘Everything a coach wants:’ UGA football commit dies after medical emergency
The FBI Birmingham field office and Gadsden police released pictures of the suspect with the lit device in their hand. The pictures show a person wearing gray clothing and a hooded sweatshirt.
The FBI is asking if anyone has information about those involved or saw suspicious activity in the area before or after the attempted arson to share any personal videos or photographs of the incidents to the FBI’s Digital Media Tip Line.
[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]