Synagogue Completely Destroyed: Fire Breaks Out Near Grave of Chabad Founder

A large fire broke out on Saturday near the grave of the founder of the Chabad Hasidic movement in Ukraine. The main synagogue, the second largest in Ukraine, was completely burned down. No casualties were reported. Heavy damage was also caused to the study hall and the hospitality complex. The circumstances of the fire are under investigation.

A large fire broke out during the Sabbath near the grave of the founder of the Chabad Hasidic movement, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (author of the Tanya), in the city of Haditch, Ukraine. The main synagogue in the complex, the second largest in Ukraine, was completely burned down. Heavy damage worth millions of dollars was also caused to the study hall and the main hospitality complex operated by the Chabad emissary in the city, Rabbi Shneur Deitsch. Fortunately, there were no casualties, and the Torah scrolls were rescued. Local firefighting forces worked for hours to control the flames. The local police have opened an investigation, examining possibilities such as an electrical short circuit or a missile or drone strike as part of the Ukraine-Russia war. The complex is a central prayer site hosting thousands of worshippers, guests, and refugees daily.