Security Guard Injured in Michigan Synagogue Attack Identified as Longtime Police Officer

Danny Phillips was standing guard at Temple of Israel when a terrorist plowed through the front doors and opened fire.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:36pm

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The security guard who was injured when an armed assailant drove into a Michigan synagogue and opened fire has been identified as Danny Phillips, a longtime police officer who previously spent 28 years working for the Bloomfield Hills Police Department.

Why it matters

The attack on the Temple of Israel synagogue in Michigan highlights the ongoing threat of antisemitic violence and the important role that security personnel play in protecting houses of worship and their congregants.

The details

According to reports, Danny Phillips was serving as the director of security at the Temple of Israel when the terrorist plowed through the front doors and opened fire. Phillips was hospitalized following the attack.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday, March 14, 2026.

The players

Danny Phillips

A longtime police officer who previously spent 28 years working for the Bloomfield Hills Police Department before joining Temple Israel as the director of security in June 2025.

Temple of Israel

A synagogue in Michigan that was the target of an armed attack.

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What they’re saying

“We are also sending our love and our prayers and our strength' to Phillips, Rabbi Jennifer Kaluzny said during Friday's Shabbat observance.”

— Rabbi Jennifer Kaluzny

What’s next

Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and the motive behind the attack.

The takeaway

This attack serves as a tragic reminder of the ongoing threat of antisemitic violence and the importance of having experienced security personnel in place to protect houses of worship and their congregants.