Man allegedly poured kerosene inside Altoona Jaffa Shrine to ‘rescue daughter’

Altoona Police say a 72-year-old man is facing several charges, accused of breaking into the Jaffa Shrine and pouring kerosene inside the building in an alleged effort to “rescue his daughter,” whom he believed was being held captive there.

Investigators say James Kaufman was taken into custody on Tuesday after authorities were called to the Jaffa Shrine around 7:30 a.m. for reports of a burglary.

According to police, officers reportedly discovered extensive damages throughout the facility, including evidence of fuel being poured in the main arena/auditorium area.

Authorities say Kaufman claimed that he believed that his daughter was being held at the Jaffa Shrine, against her will, and that he was attempting to rescue her.

Police say Kaufman also stated that once he realized she was not there, he allegedly began damaging the building and attempted to “burn the place down.”

Read more: WJAC