WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — A lawyer says the fiery attack on a man in a Hasidic Jewish village was because of his choice of synagogue and religious leader.

In a statement sent by e-mail, attorney Michael Sussman blamed “higher authorities” in New Square for the attack on 43-year-old Aron Rottenberg. He did not elaborate and did not immediately return a phone message.

Rottenberg was set afire Sunday in what police said was an attempt to burn down his house. He is hospitalized with burns.

Relatives said the family had been threatened because they do not worship at New Square’s main synagogue.

The suspect, 18-year-old Shaul Spitzer, who was also burned, was arraigned Tuesday in his hospital room on charges of attempted murder, attempted arson and assault. His lawyer did not immediately return a call.