Vehicle rams synagogue before gunfire

A man drove a vehicle into a synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, a suburb of Detroit, on March 12, before opening fire and triggering a large police response, authorities said.

The attack took place at Temple Israel, one of the largest Reform Jewish synagogues in the United States. Officials said the suspect rammed a truck through the entrance of the building and drove down a hallway before security guards confronted him. 

Security personnel exchanged gunfire with the attacker, and the suspect was killed during the confrontation. The vehicle caught fire inside the building, sending smoke through parts of the synagogue. 

Security response prevents larger tragedy

Authorities said about 140 children and staff members were inside an early childhood center located in the synagogue complex when the attack occurred. All were safely evacuated and none were injured. 

One security guard was struck by the vehicle and injured but is expected to recover, officials said. Several police officers and first responders were also treated for smoke inhalation during the emergency response. 

Law enforcement officials praised the synagogue’s security team, saying their rapid response likely prevented further casualties.

Investigation underway

The suspect was identified as Ayman Mohamed Ghazali, a 41-year-old Lebanese-born U.S. citizen who lived in nearby Dearborn Heights, according to investigators. 

Authorities say Ghazali rammed the vehicle into the building and opened fire with a rifle before being engaged by armed security. Investigators also discovered possible explosives inside the vehicle, prompting bomb technicians to secure the area. 

Federal authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are assisting local law enforcement and have described the attack as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community. 

Heightened security

Police increased patrols around religious institutions in Michigan and other U.S. cities following the incident as a precaution.

Officials and community leaders condemned the attack and called for vigilance amid rising concerns about threats against houses of worship.

The investigation into the suspect’s motive and background remains ongoing.