A 19-year-old man admitted to setting a hate-motivated fire at a Madison synagogue on Jan. 10, 2026, causing major damage.

A 19-year-old Madison man, Spencer Pittman, admitted to setting a fire at Jackson’s Beth Israel Congregation on January 10, 2026, citing the synagogue’s Jewish identity. He allegedly used an ax, poured gasoline, and ignited the fire, causing significant damage. Pittman, hospitalized with burns, confessed during a court appearance and sent text messages to his father from the scene. Federal and state arson charges, including a hate crime enhancement, have been filed. His attorneys filed a motion seeking bond, arguing he poses no danger, has no criminal history, and is not a flight risk due to limited means and strong community ties. A detention hearing was canceled, and the case remains ongoing.