A Harvard professor has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of firing a pellet gun near a synagogue in Brookline, Massachusetts, on the eve of Yom Kippur. The incident occurred outside Temple Beth Zion on Beacon Street, where congregants were gathering for services marking the holiest day on the Jewish calendar.

Carlos Portugal Gouvea, 43, a visiting professor at Harvard Law School, was arrested after police stated he discharged two shots near the synagogue. Gouvea claimed the actions were an attempt to “hunt rats,” according to local reports. He faces charges including illegal discharge of a pellet gun, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and malicious damage to personal property.

Harvard Law School confirmed Gouvea’s suspension, stating the institution is investigating the matter. No further disciplinary measures have been announced. The incident prompted a significant police response, with over a dozen officers involved.

Separately, authorities in the U.K. reported a separate attack near a synagogue on Yom Kippur, where a Muslim man struck pedestrians and stabbed victims before being subdued by police. The assault resulted in two fatalities and multiple injuries.