No arrests yet in Clayton antisemitic hate crime

Aug 9, 2025 - 04:00
No arrests yet in Clayton antisemitic hate crime

CLAYTON, Mo. - Clayton Police say they're still searching for leads into their hate crime investigation that left multiple cars burned and vandalized in the 7500 block of Westmoreland Avenue on Aug. 5.

Although no injuries were reported during the incident, officials say all three vehicles sustained serious damage. Investigators confirmed to FOX 2 that antisemitic language was spray-painted across the neighborhood's roadway.

They also stated that the graffiti referenced the Israeli Defense Forces and included a threat directed at a specific resident in the area.

Clayton residents told FOX 2 on Friday they are still shaken up after this week's events.

A visitor in the area, speaking with FOX 2, expressed shock upon learning that this incident occurred near people he knew.

"I feel like there's been a very slight or like sudden shift in how people are kind of responding to different beliefs they have and different politics," said Payton Blanchard. "I feel like Clayton is an area that I've been familiar with a little bit before and kind of seeing how quickly things can kind of turn south there makes me feel a little bit worried for people that I know that live there."

Despite not having made any arrests, Clayton Police is requesting the community's assistance in their investigation.

Anyone who lives near where the crime took place and has any form of surveillance footage between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. on Aug. 5 is asked to share any videos or images that can help find the potential suspect(s).

Individuals can submit any potential leads to the Clayton Police Department Detective Bureau at 314-290-8414.

Anonymous tips can also be sent to CrimeStoppers at (314) 725-8477 or 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).