Michigan synagogue live: Police respond to reports of ‘active shooter’ at Temple Israel
michigan law enforcement are responding to reports of an active shooter and an apparent vehicle ramming at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township. The response escalated Thursday afternoon after a driver crashed a vehicle into the synagogue complex that contains a school and smoke was seen rising from the building. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said shots were fired, there are no apparent injuries at this time and the suspect remains at large while authorities clear the building and urge nearby residents to shelter in place.
What happened: unfolding response
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard described a scene in which a suspect approached a security guard and was engaged; he confirmed that shots were fired and that a vehicle was involved. Dozens of emergency vehicles converged on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township, and aerial footage showed smoke coming from the synagogue complex. Federal officers from the FBI’s Detroit office are at the scene, FBI Director Kash Patel said, and are working with “partners in Michigan and responding to the apparent vehicle ramming and active shooter situation out of Temple Israel Synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan. “
Authorities have evacuated neighbouring school and daycare facilities inside the complex, and nearby schools have been placed on lockdown. The Jewish Federation of Detroit issued a security advisory to local organizations, calling for a lockout protocol: “Nobody in or out of your building. ” Sheriff Bouchard said clearing the building and searching the area is “a work in progress, ” and residents should remain sheltered until their areas are cleared.
Immediate reactions and community response
Governor Gretchen Whitmer said she is tracking the incident and working with state police, adding: “This is heartbreaking. Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practice their faith in peace. Antisemitism and violence have no place in Michigan. I am hoping for everyone’s safety. ” Lisa Stern, identified as a social worker and member of the synagogue, described being “scared to death” while waiting outside the police perimeter and urged calm as first responders operate on the scene.
The Michigan State Police described themselves as aware of an active shooting incident and urged the community to stay away from the area to allow police response; troopers are increasing patrols at other places of worship in the district. Local authorities emphasized that there are currently no confirmed injuries, and that the suspect remains at large as the search continues.
What happens next
Investigators from local law enforcement and the FBI are continuing to clear the synagogue complex and surrounding properties; Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said the search is ongoing and areas will be cleared in phases. Schools and daycare facilities that were evacuated remain on lockdown while officers complete their sweep. Officials have advised residents to shelter in place and avoid the perimeter to allow emergency crews to work.
Federal and state partners will maintain a heightened presence in the area while the investigation proceeds; additional details will be released as they are verified by named officials. Authorities say the search and building clearance continue and michigan residents are asked to remain sheltered and avoid the area as law enforcement conducts the investigation.
