Hyderabad, Oct. 3: A Hindu temple in Richmond Heights, Ohio, was attacked with bricks on Friday, October 2, causing damage to the building while priests and devotees were inside, according to Hindu community organisations.
The Shree Swaminarayan Vadtal Dham Hindu Mandir in the Greater Cleveland area was targeted at around 1:30 p.m. local time. Bricks were allegedly thrown at the temple, shattering windows and causing significant damage.
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said surveillance footage of the incident was available and was being reviewed by authorities. The organisation said it was in contact with temple leaders and offering assistance.
Ohio Temple Attack Under Investigation
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) said priests and some devotees were inside the temple when the attack occurred. The organisation did not report any injuries or specify the exact extent of the damage beyond the shattered windows.
HAF described the incident as a possible hate crime and urged law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible. It also said the FBI and civil rights authorities were being alerted.
However, authorities have not established a religious motive for the attack. No suspect has been publicly identified and there has been no immediate confirmation of any arrests.
CoHNA called on Richmond Heights Mayor Kim Thomas and local authorities to condemn the incident and take action against those responsible.
The attack took place as Hindu organisations in Ohio began observing Hindu Heritage Month and ahead of Navratri celebrations. Community groups have linked the timing to these observances, but the available information does not establish that the attack was connected to them.
Authorities are continuing to review surveillance footage as the investigation proceeds.
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