Michigan Synagogue Attacked; Suspect Reportedly Dead

By Elyse Apel | The Center Square

(Worthy News) – Law enforcement is responding to reports of an active shooter and a vehicle driven into Temple Israel synagogue and school, located in West Bloomfield Township.

The shooting was reported Thursday afternoon and video showed black smoke rising from the building, which is about 25 miles northwest of Detroit.

As of 2 p.m., an AP source reported the suspect in the attack is dead.

The building has been evacuated, according to Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed federal agents are on the scene.

“FBI personnel are on the scene with partners in Michigan and responding to the apparent vehicle ramming and active shooter situation out of Temple Israel Synagogue in West Bloomfield Township,” Patel said in a statement.

The incident prompted local schools to go into “secure mode,” and local law enforcement agencies are urging residents to avoid the area while the situation remains active.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she is tracking the reports.

“This is heartbreaking,” Whitmer said in a statement. “Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practice their faith in peace. Antisemitism and violence have no place in Michigan. I am hoping for everyone’s safety.”

The attack comes amid a broader rise in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. and globally. Jewish institutions, including synagogues and schools, have increasingly strengthened security measures in recent months. The U.S. has also been on high alert for attacks amid the ongoing conflict against Iran.

The attack echoes a September 2025 attack on a Michigan church, in which a gunman rammed a vehicle into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building in Grand Blanc Township, opened fire, and set the structure on fire. Five people, including the gunman, were killed, and many injured in the attack.

The FBI and local law enforcement continue to investigate the scene at Temple Israel, and residents are urged to stay clear of the area.

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