LOS ANGELES — A South Los Angeles mosque was the target of a disturbing arson and vandalism attack just days before the start of Ramadan, prompting fear and concern among local Muslim leaders and residents.
Authorities confirmed the arrest of a woman accused of throwing burning materials at the Islah LA & Academy mosque, an incident mosque officials say appeared deliberate and deeply unsettling.
According to Jihad Saafir, the mosque’s religious director, security footage shows the suspect igniting rags and toilet paper before tossing them toward the building in an apparent attempt to set it ablaze.
“It was clear she intended to burn the building down,” Saafir said. “She even admitted that was her goal.”
Although flames scorched part of the mosque’s exterior, the structure remained standing. No injuries were reported.
Attack Escalated After Initial Incident
Mosque leaders say the situation worsened when the same individual later returned to the property. During the second incident, she allegedly shouted profanities, threw eggs, and spray-painted offensive language on the facility’s gate.
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Saafir revealed that the suspect was not a stranger to the organization. He said the mosque had previously attempted to assist her by connecting her with housing resources, mental health services, and financial aid.
“This reflects a much broader issue,” Saafir explained. “There’s a serious crisis involving homelessness and untreated mental illness in our communities.”
Community Concerns in the Area
The mosque is located along Slauson Avenue, an area some residents describe as struggling with crime and drug activity. A nearby resident, who identified herself only as Jackie, expressed frustration over what she sees as a lack of support and safety.
“You have to be very careful around here,” she said. “It feels like the people who should care just don’t anymore.”
Saafir added that no emergency services appeared to respond during the fire itself.
“As far as we know, no one called 911,” he said. “The fire eventually went out on its own.”
Arrest Made, Hate Crime Charges Considered
Police later identified and arrested the woman seen in the surveillance video. As of Wednesday night, she remained in custody.
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Mosque leaders say they are urging prosecutors to consider hate crime charges, especially given the timing of the incident so close to Ramadan, one of the most sacred months in Islam.
The Islah LA & Academy mosque is known for its outreach efforts, including food distribution programs and housing assistance across Los Angeles.
Source
This report is based on statements and interviews with Jihad Saafir, religious director of Islah LA & Academy mosque.
