Clayton police have released surveillance images of a person of interest in the Clayton antisemitic hate crime investigation, seeking the public’s help to identify them. The case stems from suspicious fires reported Aug. 5 on Westmoreland Avenue, a neighborhood near Kol Rinah synagogue and home to many Jewish families. Investigators also found antisemitic graffiti near the scene, leading them to classify the case as a hate crime.

New images could solve Clayton antisemitic hate crime

The individual was captured on surveillance video wearing dark shoes with a distinctive white or light-colored sole and carrying a light-colored fanny pack or crossbody bag. Clayton Police released still images from security cameras showing the person walking through the neighborhood that night and are urging residents to check doorbell cameras and security footage for additional leads.

2/4 The individual shown in the video and photographs below was last seen wearing:
• Dark shoes with a distinctive white or light-colored sole
• A light-colored fanny pack or crossbody-style bag worn across the chest. pic.twitter.com/sJsJtkjyTw

— Clayton Missouri Police Department (@ClaytonMOPD) September 15, 2025

Community leaders demand justice after Clayton antisemitic hate crime

Community leaders have condemned the attack and are calling for accountability. “This apparent arson attack in our community is horrific and terrifying. We need to send a clear message that antisemitic hate crimes are unacceptable, have no place in Missouri and will be punished to the fullest extent of the law,” said Jordan Kadosh, ADL Heartland regional director.

Jewish Federation of St. Louis President and CEO Danny Cohn said the community will remain vigilant. “Antisemitism cannot be ignored, excused or allowed to fester in the shadows. We will stand together, remain vigilant and do everything we can to ensure those responsible are found and held accountable.”

The ADL reported 9,354 antisemitic incidents nationwide in 2024, including 105 in Missouri — among the highest totals ever recorded.

How to share information and claim $30K reward

Anyone with information is asked to call the Clayton Police Department Detective Bureau at 314-290-8414 or submit an anonymous tip through St. Louis Regional CrimeStoppers. Tips can be sent via the P3 Tips App, by calling 314-725-8477 or 1-866-371-TIPS, or online at stlrcs.org. Police stress that all tips remain anonymous and that a reward of $30,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.