Man federally indicted for allegedly setting fire to Northeast Philadelphia mosque

The indictment says Lang maliciously attempted to damage and destroy the center by fire, and that he did it because it was a mosque.

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A Philadelphia man has been indicted in connection with an arson at the Northeast Philadelphia Islamic Center.

Vincent Lang, 60, is facing civil rights charges in connection with the July 5 incident.

Authorities took 60-year-old Vincent Lang into custody on Thursday in connection with an arson at a Philadelphia mosque.

The indictment says Lang maliciously attempted to damage and destroy the center along the 1400 block of Tyson Avenue by fire, and that he did it because it was a mosque.

Police say surveillance images show him lighting a fire and throwing it into the entryway.

If convicted, Lang faces a maximum of 40 years in prison, with a five-year mandatory minimum.

He's been in federal custody since July 16.

Report a correction or typo