Pittsburgh neighborhood vandalized with antisemitic message; police investigating

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh police are investigating an incident of antisemitic graffiti in the city.

A police spokesperson confirms to Channel 11 that the department is investigating after an antisemitic phrase was spray painted on the ground beside a “We Stand with Israel” sign in the city’s Central North Side neighborhood.

Public work crews washed away the graffiti first thing Monday morning to the relief of the homeowner — a Jewish woman, who asked that we not identify her or reveal her address to protect her family.

It was early Sunday morning when her security camera captured the suspect in action, putting graphic pictures of the war in Gaza on her front door, then spray-painting in red a slogan used by the Nazis in Germany on her sidewalk.

She told Channel 11 this was the fourth time that her house was targeted this month.

Two other times her flag was defaced, and another time it was thrown in the trash.

Since the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, antisemitic acts against Jews have significantly increased.

The incident has been reported to the FBI.

Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey posted the following on social media:

“I am dedicated to building a city that is safe, welcoming, and thriving for everyone who calls Pittsburgh home, and that means coming together to reject antisemitism and all forms of hate.”

The FBI sent Channel 11 the following statement:

“The FBI can neither confirm nor deny the existence of any investigation related to the incident in question.

We are aware of it, however, and we remain in touch with our local law enforcement and community partners to provide assistance if needed or appropriate.

The FBI takes threats of a religious nature directed against individuals, communities, and institutions very seriously. We remain vigilant in our efforts to detect and assess possible threats.

We encourage the public to promptly report any suspicious individuals or activities to law enforcement immediately by calling 911, the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or online at tips.fbi.gov.”

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