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Police arrest man suspected in Molotov cocktail attack on 2 religious buildings in Queens
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Jul 9, 2026
Modified Jul 9, 2026
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By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Jul 9, 2026
Modified Jul 9, 2026
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Police have arrested a man who allegedly threw Molotov cocktails at two different houses of worship in Queens overnight, NYPD officials said.
Officers in Ozone Park received a 911 call just before midnight Wednesday reporting criminal mischief at Iglesia Bautista "El Mesias," a Baptist church on 75th Street and 101st Avenue.
When they arrived at the scene, they were informed that a 36-year-old man had thrown a Molotov cocktail at the door of the building, according to the NYPD. It bounced onto the ground, where it exploded and caused a small fire on the sidewalk, police said.
The same man then walked about 10 minutes north to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses on 78th Street and Rockaway Boulevard, and threw another Molotov cocktail at the door of that building, according to the NYPD. It struck the door and hit the ground, causing another small fire, police said.
Officials said he then threw a third Molotov cocktail at a building that houses a car service company on the corner of Rockaway Boulevard and 77th Street.
Police said none of the buildings were damaged, and no injuries were reported. The FDNY responded to the fires and extinguished them.
Officials said the man, whose last known address is in Queens, was taken into custody shortly afterward on 78th Street and Atlantic Avenue. Police were still investigating his motives for the attacks by midday Thursday. Police said the his identity would be released once he is charged.
This story has been updated with new information.
Tagged
arson
church fire
fdny
nypd
queens
Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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