Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, in the metropolitan Detroit area, is more than just a synagogue. It is also home to an early childhood education center and kindergarten program for children ages six and younger. Today, just before 1 p.m., an assailant drove a vehicle directly through the doors of Temple Israel in what is now being investigated as a hate crime. Fortunately, all the children were evacuated and reunited with their parents, and no injuries or deaths were reported other than the attacker, who was shot by security.
After crashing through the doors, the attacker drove down a school hallway inside the synagogue. As the emergency unfolded, Jewish agencies in Detroit issued a precautionary lockdown within a one-mile radius, which was lifted about two hours later. The Jewish Community Center, where the children were evacuated, was heavily guarded by police as their families arrived to pick them up. Three school buses were also escorted to the nearby Shenandoah Country Club.
The attacker, who appeared to have acted alone, was stopped before he could leave the vehicle. The truck was checked for explosives and other weapons. A security guard who was struck and knocked unconscious was taken to a hospital and is expected to recover.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement, “This is heartbreaking. Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practice their faith in peace. Anti-Semitism and violence have no place in Michigan. I am hoping for everyone’s safety. Thank you to law enforcement for their swift actions.”
At this time, there is no clear motive other than the apparent targeting of a Jewish institution as police continue their investigation. The FBI is expected to lead the investigation.
We praise God that the children of Temple Israel were able to be held safe and sound in their parents’ arms. This is truly a moment of perfect timing. Had it not been for the quick actions of the security officers, schoolteachers, and the broader Jewish community’s response, this could have been truly devastating. The Fellowship works toward—and prays for—a world free from anti-Semitic hate.