The suspect who rammed a vehicle into a Michigan synagogue is believed to be dead after engaging in gunfire with security personnel on scene.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said he believed the apparent attacker was dead, without providing a cause of death.
“We can’t say what killed him at this point, but security did engage the suspect with gunfire” at the synagogue, the sheriff told reporters. A security guard was hit by the vehicle and injured, but he is expected to make a full recovery after receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.
“Lockdown is still in place, but the active shooter has been taken down. Lockdown will be in place until they know that the shooter was working alone. All kids and all staff accounted for and fine. Truck rammed into front door and opened fire,” reads a text the synagogue sent to members around 1:30 pm.
Temple Israel Synagogue in West Bloomfield, Mich., the site of the attack, confirmed that all of its personnel are safe and security personnel neutralized the suspect.
“As you have no doubt heard, Temple Israel was the victim of a terrorist gunman who was confronted and neutralized by our security personnel who are truly heroes. Our teachers followed their training and kept the children safe and calm,” Temple Israel said in a statement shared on social media.
“We are deeply and humbly grateful to our teachers, staff, security, law enforcement, and Shenendoah Country Club that welcomed us, fed us, and sheltered our staff, teachers, children, and parents. What incredible neighbors we have. What incredible police force we have,” the statement adds.
FBI Director Kash Patel said FBI personnel were on scene assisting local partners. It is too early to determine whether the shooting was a terrorist attack, police said. Jewish facilities in the area of the shooting will have extra security for the time being.
“We are aware of an active security incident at Temple Israel,” the Jewish Federation of Detroit said as the incident unfolded. “Law enforcement are responding. Our Jewish agencies are currently in precautionary lockdown. We ask community members to stay away from the area at this time.”
Temple Israel is a prominent Reform synagogue located in an area with a large Jewish population.
“Before our very eyes, a Temple in West Bloomfield is under attack,” said Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D), who represents the area. “Like many of you, I am getting reports in real time. To everyone in Michigan’s 11th district, continue to follow the guidance of local law enforcement. To the Jewish American community in Michigan and beyond, we stand with you.”
Two months ago, the FBI’s Detroit office conducted an active shooter prevention training with clergy and staff at the Temple Israel Synagogue. The training featured lessons from research and scenarios where personnel would have to practice the “run, fight, hide” decision-making process. It appears to have made an impact, given the swift response of the Synagogue’s security personnel and the rapid deployment of resources from state and federal partners.