Police arrest man in connection with Duluth synagogue fire

Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken says Matthew Amiot is being held on a first degree arson charge for the fire at the Adas Israel Synagogue. The arrest was made Friday, and Amiot had been under suspicion since Monday afternoon.

Tusken did not confirm a motive. Amiot does have a criminal record, and does not have a fixed address.

Around 2:30am Central Time Monday September 9, firefighters responded to reports of a blaze at the Adas Israel Congregation. The synagogue was established in the late 19th century and has a membership of around 75 Orthodox Jewish people.

The cause of the fire is not known. The synagogue burned almost completely to the ground. Chief Tusken confirmed they worked with the local Jewish community to retrieve priceless objects.

Amiot is expected in court later this week.