WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. — An individual who launched an attack on a Michigan synagogue has died, according to a source with knowledge of the incident who spoke with The Associated Press following reports that security personnel exchanged gunfire at what’s considered America’s largest Reform synagogue.
The source verified the death occurred at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township but declined to share further details. Speaking anonymously due to the active nature of the investigation, the source indicated no additional injuries were reported.
Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard had previously stated during a press briefing that synagogue security personnel had exchanged shots with at least one individual, noting that nobody was in police custody at that time.
Local television station WDIV reported that a vehicle had collided with the synagogue structure. Video from the location showed smoke rising from the building’s rooftop, with numerous law enforcement vehicles encircling the property.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that federal agents had responded to what he described as “an apparent vehicle ramming and active shooter situation” at the religious facility.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s department stated that officials were conducting a thorough search of the premises. Approximately twelve parents rushed to retrieve their children from the synagogue’s early childhood learning facility after receiving police clearance. The West Bloomfield School District implemented lockdown procedures.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement indicating she was monitoring the situation’s developments.
“This is heartbreaking,” the governor said. “Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practice their faith in peace.”
Temple Israel identifies itself as America’s largest Reform synagogue, serving 12,000 members according to its online presence. The facility houses an early childhood education program and provides various educational opportunities for families and adults.
The synagogue’s website describes the organization as “passionate about helping Jewish communities across the globe” with a mission to “create a community building through the lens of Reform Judaism.”
The Jewish Federation of Detroit issued guidance for all area Jewish institutions “to go into lockout protocol — nobody in or out of your building.”
