Man Attacks Michigan Synagogue in Suicidal Rampage

Ex-wife called 911 to report gunman's mental health crisis before incident

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:07am

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The ex-wife of Ayman Ghazali, the man who drove a pickup truck into a Detroit-area synagogue, told police that he was distraught and suicidal at the time of the attack. She called 911 around the same time Ghazali carried out the assault on Temple Israel.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing mental health crises and preventing acts of violence, especially in vulnerable community spaces like places of worship. It also raises questions about how to better support families dealing with loved ones in distress.

The details

According to reports, Ghazali's ex-wife called 911 to alert authorities that he was in a mental health crisis and suicidal shortly before he drove his pickup truck into the entrance of Temple Israel synagogue in a Detroit suburb. The attack caused significant property damage but no injuries, as the synagogue was closed at the time.

  • The ex-wife called 911 around the same time as the synagogue attack on March 17, 2026.

The players

Ayman Ghazali

The man who drove a pickup truck into a Detroit-area synagogue while in a suicidal mental health crisis.

Temple Israel

The synagogue that was attacked by Ghazali, located in a Detroit suburb.

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What they’re saying

“We must do more to address mental health issues and prevent tragedies like this from occurring in our houses of worship.”

— Rabbi Deborah Prinz, Leader of Temple Israel

What’s next

Authorities are investigating the incident and Ghazali's mental health history to determine if charges will be filed.

The takeaway

This attack underscores the urgent need for better mental health resources and support systems to identify and assist individuals in crisis, in order to prevent violence and protect vulnerable community spaces.