Leaders of Temple Israel synagogue after shooting: We were victims of terrorist gunman

Kevin J. Hardy, The Detroit News on Mar 12, 2026

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WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. — Leaders of Temple Israel said all children, staff and congregants said they were safe Thursday after a gunman rammed a truck into the synagogue and opened fire before being killed in a violent exchange with security personnel.

In a message to members, temple officials said all 140 students in the Susan and Harold Loss Early Childhood Center were accounted for, along with teachers and staff, after the attack at the synagogue on Walnut Lake Road.

“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,” temple leaders said in the statement. “Our teachers followed their training and kept the children safe and calm.”

The synagogue praised its staff, security personnel and responding law enforcement, and thanked nearby Shenandoah Country Club for providing shelter and food for staff, teachers, children and parents in the aftermath.

Temple leaders said they were still awaiting more information about the investigation and future programming, but wanted congregants to know "we are safe, and we love you all.”

The FBI noted on X on Thursday that it had done an Active Shooter Attack Prevention and Preparedness training session for clergy and staff at Temple Israel. The course incorporated lessons learned from years of research and uses scenario-based exercises to help participants practice decision-making under pressure using the “Run, Hide, Fight” principles, which are designed to guide people toward actions that can improve their chances of survival during an active-shooter incident.

Officials said the training was part of the bureau’s broader effort to partner with organizations across Michigan to strengthen safety planning and preparedness, helping communities better prepare for potential threats and respond effectively in emergencies.

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