Gadsden, Ala. – On Saturday night, the FBI’s Birmingham office and Gadsden Police announced the arrest of a person suspected of setting fire to the front entrance of the Gadsden Islamic Society’s mosque on Wednesday. The arrest came after a coordinated investigative effort that included surveillance video, a public reward offer, and extensive collaboration among local, state and federal agencies.
Law‑enforcement response
Special Agent in Charge David R. Fitzgibbons praised the “tireless work and close collaboration of our law‑enforcement partners at every level.” He emphasized that protecting the public and safeguarding the constitutional rights of all citizens remain central to the FBI’s mission. The agency also reiterated its promise that “Justice will find you,” underscoring the commitment to pursue criminals and protect victims.
Mayor and community reaction
Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford condemned the violence, stating that the city will not tolerate any act that threatens the safety of its residents. “Everyone who calls Gadsden home deserves to feel safe, and we take that responsibility very seriously,” Ford said, adding thanks to the police and FBI for their hard work.
Cofounder of the Gadsden Islamic Society, Yousef Alabbasi, expressed disappointment but also gratitude for the swift response. He noted that the mosque’s imam helped extinguish the flames before they could spread, and no one was injured. Alabbasi described the incident as “something sad that this is happening in our small town of Gadsden.”
Details of the arson
Surveillance footage captured a masked individual throwing an object—identified by Alabbasi as a rubber mat—into the mosque’s front door, where it ignited a Molotov‑style fire. The FBI confirmed that an incendiary device was used. The Council on American‑Islamic Relations initially offered a $10,000 reward for information; the FBI later increased the reward to up to $20,000 for tips leading to the suspect’s identification, arrest and conviction.
Community and faith response
The Gadsden Islamic Society released a statement condemning the attack as an assault on both the Muslim community and the broader constitutional right to practice faith in peace. The society thanked Almighty God for protecting the house of worship and praised community members for their vigilance in preventing greater damage.
Alabbasi called on state leaders, including Governor‑Elect Kay Ivey, to speak out against anti‑Muslim hate and to protect every community’s religious freedom. He added, “I hope that he goes to the basics of the Bible, Quran or the Torah. They emphasize the importance of neighbors and accepting people for what they believe.”
Ongoing investigation
Authorities said the investigation remains active, and they continue to seek information from the public. The collaborative effort demonstrates how federal, state and local partners can work together to protect all citizens, uphold constitutional rights, and keep Gadsden’s neighborhoods safe.
Original reporting: WAFF 48 Huntsville (news) — read the source article.
