Michigan Synagogue Attacker Bought $2K in Fireworks Before Deadly Rampage

Surveillance video allegedly shows Ayman Mohamad Ghazali purchasing fireworks days before he rammed a truck into a synagogue, sparking a deadly shootout.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:36am

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Newly obtained video footage allegedly shows Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, the man accused of attacking a synagogue in West Bloomfield, Michigan, purchasing over $2,000 worth of fireworks just two days before the incident. Ghazali is said to have rammed a truck into Temple Israel synagogue and then exchanged gunfire with armed security, resulting in his death.

Why it matters

The fireworks purchase raises questions about Ghazali's potential planning and motives for the attack, which authorities are still investigating. The incident has shaken the local community and prompted discussions about security measures at places of worship.

The details

According to the video, Ghazali made two purchases of fireworks totaling $2,250.96 at a Phantom Fireworks showroom in Livonia, Michigan, on March 10. He purchased 20 items, including firecrackers, aerial repeaters, and a fountain product. Phantom Fireworks executives said Ghazali seemed in a good mood during the purchases and there was nothing suspicious about his behavior at the time.

  • On March 10, Ghazali allegedly purchased $2,250.96 worth of fireworks.
  • On March 12, Ghazali allegedly rammed a truck into Temple Israel synagogue in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

The players

Ayman Mohamad Ghazali

A 41-year-old Dearborn Heights, Michigan resident who is accused of carrying out the attack on the Temple Israel synagogue.

Phantom Fireworks

The fireworks retailer where Ghazali allegedly purchased the fireworks used in the attack.

Alan Zoldan

The executive vice president of Phantom Fireworks who spoke to Fox News about Ghazali's purchases.

Jennifer Runyan

The special agent in charge of the FBI's Detroit field office, who confirmed Ghazali as the assailant.

Mo Baydoun

The mayor of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, who spoke about Ghazali's recent personal losses in Lebanon.

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What they’re saying

“He obviously thought that they were going to be stronger and perhaps more devastating than they were.”

— Alan Zoldan, Executive Vice President, Phantom Fireworks

“That grief is real and it's heartbreaking. But let me be clear: that is not an excuse. These actions do not reflect our values as a city. This is not who we are. There is never an excuse for violence, especially violence directed at a sacred space.”

— Mo Baydoun, Mayor, Dearborn Heights

What’s next

The investigation into the attack on the Temple Israel synagogue is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine Ghazali's full motives and any potential accomplices.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for heightened security measures at places of worship, as well as the importance of addressing mental health and grief in a constructive manner to prevent such tragedies from occurring.