We wanted to make you aware of a situation that occurred early Saturday morning. The following is what we know at this time:

Ruba Awni Almaghtheh drove her vehicle into a building in a residential neighborhood at 3500 N Keystone Av, Indianapolis. This building is identified as belonging to and representing a sect of the Black Hebrew Israelites (designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center), with a semblance of a star of David on the front door. Based on this signage and “Hebrew Israelite” wording, it is believed Almaghtheh thought the building to represent Israel in some way, specifically citing the Hebrew Israelite symbol on the door. The woman was immediately taken into custody. Coordination with local and federal law enforcement continues.

The threat level for our community has not increased. Safe Indiana, our Jewish community security program, was immediately notified, and has been working alongside law enforcement on this incident. Safety and security for our community is of the utmost importance, and we are more secure and prepared than ever before. Although a Jewish facility was not targeted, solely due to ironic misidentification, this is yet another reminder to maintain security protocols, remain vigilant of suspicious activity and to report same promptly to the appropriate authorities. More information on the Safe Indiana program, the security plan for our community, and the incident report form can be found by visiting https://www.jewishindianapolis.org/safe-indiana.

More updates will be provided as the situation develops. Please reach out to Bradley Swim, Safe Indiana Regional Security Advisor, at safeindy@jfgi.org should you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Jamie Ratner Rich, JCRC President

Helen Kurlander Goldstein, JFGI President 

Jacob Markey, JCRC Executive Director

Marc Swatez, JFGI CEO