Austin Police Probe Hate-Fueled Vandalism at 3 Local Mosques/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Austin police are investigating vandalism at three local mosques, including the spray-painting of the Star of David. Community leaders and city officials have condemned the incidents and vowed to protect religious freedom. Directed police patrols and increased security have been implemented near affected sites.
Austin Mosque Vandalism: Quick Looks
- Three Mosques Targeted: Nueces Mosque, Turkish Center, and IABA Mosque were all vandalized late Thursday.
- Symbols of Hate Spray-Painted: Star of David symbols were painted across Nueces Mosque in West Campus.
- Police Increase Patrols: APD is monitoring mosques citywide and encouraging tips from the public.
- Community Responds with Resilience: Leaders reaffirm commitment to peace, unity, and interfaith solidarity.
- City Leaders Condemn Hate: Council Members Zo Qadri and Krista Laine pledge swift justice and support for Muslim communities.
Deep Look
Austin Police Probe Hate-Fueled Vandalism at Local Mosques
AUSTIN, TEXAS — In a chilling series of attacks late Friday evening, three Austin mosques were vandalized with hate symbols, prompting an active police investigation and a swift outcry from city officials and interfaith leaders.
According to the Austin Police Department, the targeted religious sites include Nueces Mosque in West Campus, and the Turkish Center and IABA Mosque in northwest Austin. The Star of David was spray-painted multiple times on the walls of Nueces Mosque, leaving residents and worshippers stunned and disheartened.
“It’s saddening to have someone do this,” said Fathia, property manager of Nueces Mosque. “But we’ll keep doing what we’ve done for the last 50 years — spreading peace, educating the community, and supporting UT students.”
Increased Police Presence, Public Vigilance
The Austin Police Department announced that directed patrols will be deployed around all city mosques to protect the community and prevent further incidents. Security guards were also stationed at Nueces Mosque on Friday night, providing reassurance to residents.
“It’s a dangerous world out there,” said Aaron Ojeda, a mosque attendee. “Whether you’re Arab or not, people seem to struggle with letting others simply live and believe freely.”
The APD emphasized its “unwavering commitment” to a safe and inclusive Austin in its statement. “We aim to ensure a community where every member feels safe, valued, and respected,” the department said, urging residents to report suspicious activity by calling 911.
Strong Condemnation from City Officials
Austin City Council Members Zo Qadri and Krista Laine issued a joint statement condemning the acts of vandalism as “harassment at religious centers of any kind” and declared they would not allow such hate to define Austin’s values.
“These acts do not reflect who we are as a city,” the statement read. “To our Muslim and interfaith communities: You belong here. We stand with you.”
The officials pledged to work with law enforcement to ensure a “full and swift investigation” and to continue advocating for a community rooted in “love, respect, and inclusion over hate.”
CAIR Responds, Community Unites
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) confirmed the incidents and is working with police and mosque leaders. The group also called for heightened security around all houses of worship in Austin.
In the face of hate, mosque leaders reiterated a message of resilience and unity. “We are here to stay. We will continue to serve our communities — not with fear, but with hope,” Fathia said.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.