NYPD Seeks Anti-Israel Protester for Brooklyn Arson Damaging 11 Police Cars

Jakhi Lodgson-McCray, a 21-year-old New Jersey man with a history of protest-related arrests, is wanted by the NYPD for allegedly setting fire to 11 police vehicles in Brooklyn's Bushwick neighborhood on June 12, causing over $800,000 in damages. Authorities believe he acted alone, targeting a police facility, and have tracked his movements through extensive video surveillance, noting he changed clothes multiple times during his escape. Additionally, Lodgson-McCray is wanted for vandalizing a statue at Columbia University during a pro-Palestinian protest and has been active in the 'Free Palestine' movement based on his social media presence. His arrest record includes various protest-related incidents dating back to January 2023, including resisting arrest at an anti-ICE protest and damage at anti-Israel demonstrations. The NYPD continues to seek public assistance in locating him and maintains a zero-tolerance stance on attacks against law enforcement. The investigation also explores a possible connection to another police van fire in Brooklyn.