Arizona Man Indicted for Synagogue Arson in Hate Crime Case

On November 18, 2025, a federal grand jury in Phoenix indicted Everardo Gregorio, 31, of Casa Grande, Arizona, on charges of obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by fire. This indictment stems from the March 3 arson attack on the Khal Chasidim Jewish Community Center in Casa Grande.

The indictment alleges that Gregorio intentionally set fire to the synagogue, which also housed a kosher grocery store and restaurant, resulting in extensive damage. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Gregorio has also been charged with arson by the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and is awaiting trial in that case.

The fire occurred around 5:00 a.m. on March 3 at the Khal Chasidim Community Center, located on 8th Street off Florence Boulevard. Firefighters responded promptly but were unable to prevent significant damage to the building. No injuries were reported.

Surveillance footage reportedly showed Gregorio near the community center multiple times during the night of the incident. He was first seen at 1:29 a.m., then at 2:14 a.m., and left the area at 3:54 a.m. Three minutes later, smoke was visible inside the building. Gregorio was arrested on March 5 near the scene and charged with arson.

The Khal Chasidim Community Center served as a vital hub for the local Jewish community, offering religious services, a kosher grocery store, and a restaurant. Despite the devastation, community members, under the guidance of Rabbi Mendy Deitsch, have expressed resilience and a commitment to rebuilding. Rabbi Deitsch stated, "We’re devastated, but we’re not broken. This is a place of unity and strength, and we will rebuild."

This incident is not isolated; Casa Grande has experienced previous arson attacks on religious institutions. In October 2024, St. Anthony of Padua church suffered significant damage from a fire. These events have raised concerns about the safety and security of religious communities in the area.

In the aftermath of the fire, the Casa Grande community has shown solidarity. Local officials, including Mayor Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons, have offered support to the Jewish community. Other religious organizations, such as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have extended offers of temporary worship space and assistance with cleanup efforts.

The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Casa Grande Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Goldberg for the District of Arizona is handling the prosecution, in conjunction with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.

The indictment of Everardo Gregorio marks a significant step in addressing hate crimes targeting religious institutions. The resilience of the Khal Chasidim community and the support from the broader Casa Grande community highlight the collective commitment to overcoming adversity and promoting unity.