Vandals Smash Door of Newly Opened Chabad House in Utah
An incident at the new Chabad House in Lehi, Utah County, has raised concern after unknown individuals smashed the entrance door during Sukkos, just one month after the center was inaugurated. No one was inside at the time, and no injuries were reported. Although nothing was stolen, raising suspicions of a possible antisemitic motive, police have not yet determined the reason for the incident • Full Story
The incident occurred shortly before midnight on Motzei Shabbos, September 26, as members of the Jewish community were celebrating Sukkos.
According to the Lehi Police Department, the east glass entrance door of the multi-unit complex on Mayflower Avenue was shattered, triggering a security alarm. Officers responded to the scene, searched the building and confirmed that someone had unlawfully entered the premises. No property was reported stolen from the Chabad House or the other businesses in the complex.
Chabad of Utah County is led by Rabbi Chaim Zippel and his wife, Esty, who moved to Lehi in 2022 to establish the Chabad House.
After operating from their home and using various locations for community activities, they leased a dedicated office and classroom space in August 2026. The center’s door sign was installed on August 27, making the incident particularly distressing as it occurred just one month after the new location was established.
Police are investigating all possible motives, including whether bias or prejudice played a role. However, officials have emphasized that there is currently insufficient evidence to classify the incident as a hate crime. No suspects have been arrested, and investigators are continuing to pursue leads.
Police have asked anyone with information about the incident or suspicious activity in the area to contact the Lehi Police Department.
The incident follows another act of vandalism targeting a Jewish institution in northern Utah. Weeks earlier, a sign outside Temple Har Shalom in Park City was defaced, with the Star of David and several letters damaged. The two incidents have prompted renewed concern among local Jewish leaders about the security of Jewish institutions in the region.
Despite the damage, Rabbi Zippel said the community remains determined to continue its work. He expressed gratitude for the support shown by Jewish and non-Jewish neighbors and community leaders, emphasizing that the incident would not derail Chabad’s efforts to strengthen Jewish life in Utah County. The community, he said, intends to respond by continuing its activities and bringing more light, kindness and Jewish connection to the area.
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