Mural at site of Jewish temple that burned in Eaton fire vandalized with swastikas, antisemitic graffiti

Authorities are investigating a hate crime after a beloved Pasadena mural was vandalized this week with an antisemitic message and swastikas.

The incident took place Friday in the 1400 block of North Altadena Drive in the unincorporated area of Pasadena, according to the L.A. County sheriff’s Altadena station. It was unclear to investigators how many suspects were involved.

On Sunday, Rabbi Josh Ratner told The Times that one of the congregants who lives near the temple discovered the vandalism.

The mural, featuring a large, bright orange poppy, was “a symbol of hope, resilience and solidarity,” according to the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center, which called for the mural’s restoration following the 2025 Eaton fire. The devastating blaze burned more than 9,000 structures and left 19 dead.

“The mural was brought to life through the vision and generosity of many,” the temple said in a Facebook post. “We are deeply saddened and outraged by this act, but we refuse to let it define our community.”

This was not an isolated incident of vandalism at the ruined temple, Ratner said. Earlier this year, the remaining exterior wall of the temple was similarly defaced. “The mural was erected in response to that prior act of graffiti,” he said.

The synagogue has been operating off-site for more than a year, according to its website. The more than 100-year-old temple was reduced to rubble in the fire. Founded in 1921as Temple B’nai Israel of Pasadena, it served as a haven for Jews, who, along with other minority ethnic groups, were prohibited from buying property in Pasadena and surrounding areas due to exclusionary covenants.

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In 1941, the temple moved to its current location on Altadena Drive. The synagogue changed its name in 1949. Kristine Garroway, a longtime member with an archaeological background, spoke with The Times last year about a previous mural at the synagogue that dated to the 1920s, although its true origin remains unknown.

The modern-day mural artwork by scenic painter Miriam Hellmann read: “We are all responsible for each other.” The temple said it was working with investigators and looking to restore the mural. It is not clear if Hellmann will rejoin the project.

“Crimes motivated by hate have no place in our community,” L.A. County sheriff’s Capt. Ethan Marquez said in a statement Friday. “We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation, holding those responsible accountable and standing with our Jewish community, all faith communities and every resident against all forms of hatred and intolerance.”

Ratner said a camera was installed following the first vandalism incident. The temple provided the footage to authorities, he said.

Anyone with information can contact the Altadena Sheriff’s Station at (626) 798-1131. Those who wish to remain anonymous can provide information through Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 222-8477 or by submitting a tip online. The detective in charge of this case can be contacted at hhdohert@lasd.org.