Car Rams Michigan Synagogue, Suspect Killed by Security

The FBI is investigating the incident as a 'targeted act of violence against the Jewish community'.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 11:58pm

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A car rammed into a synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan on Thursday, March 12. The suspect was killed by security staff at Temple Israel synagogue. The FBI is investigating the incident as a 'targeted act of violence against the Jewish community'. No children or school staff were injured, but the head of security was hospitalized after being knocked down by the car. About 30 law enforcement officers were also treated for smoke inhalation from a fire that started after the car was driven into the building.

Why it matters

The attack comes amid rising incidents of antisemitism and in the midst of tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The Jewish community has expressed resolve to continue being 'loud and proud' despite the incident, which Michigan's governor called 'every community's worst nightmare'.

The details

According to police, a 911 call at 12:19 p.m. reported an 'active shooter situation' at Temple Israel synagogue, where the suspect had driven a car into the building. Temple security officers engaged the suspect and 'neutralized the threat'. The suspect's identity and motive remain under investigation. The head of security was hospitalized after being knocked down by the car, and about 30 law enforcement officers were treated for smoke inhalation from a fire that started after the car was driven into the building.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at around 12:19 p.m.

The players

Temple Israel

A Reform synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan with over 3,500 families (more than 12,000 people) as members. The synagogue was first organized in 1941 and moved to its current location in 1980.

West Bloomfield Township Police Chief Dale Young

The police chief who provided details about the incident at a news conference.

Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard

The sheriff who spoke at the news conference and said the investigation would determine the motive.

Jennifer Runyan

The FBI special agent in charge of the Detroit field division, who said the FBI is investigating the incident as a 'targeted act of violence against the Jewish community'.

Steven Ingber

The CEO of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, who said the Jewish community would not change their behavior and would continue to be 'loud and proud' of being Jewish.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Temple Israel (Facebook)

“This is a tough time, but we will get through this. We will get through this together. We will get through this stronger, and we will continue to be loud and proud of being Jewish. This will not change us.”

— Steven Ingber, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit (News conference)

“We saw incredible people step up today to save lives and stop the suspect. Our state is grateful to the security personnel for their bravery and law enforcement who jumped into action to keep students safe.”

— Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Governor (X)

What’s next

The FBI and local law enforcement will continue investigating the suspect's identity and motive for the attack.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing threat of antisemitism and the need for vigilance and security measures to protect Jewish communities, even in the face of such targeted violence.