WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. (WWMT) — UPDATE: The suspect in the incident at a West Bloomfield synagogue is dead, according to the Associated Press.
” The suspect in an attack on a synagogue in Michigan is dead, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. The person confirmed the death but did not immediately provide additional details. The person could not publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. The person said no one else was reported injured,” AP reports.
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Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard says that the building has been evacuated, but no suspect is in custody at this time.
“At least one individual came to the temple, security saw him, engaged him in gunfire,” said Bouchard.
Unification will take place at the Jewish Community Center (6600 W Maple Rd.).
There are no confirmed injuries at this time, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
A shelter in place order has been made for the square mile surrounding the scene.
In a statement, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says her office is working with Michigan State Police to get more information, and hopes for the safety of everyone.
“This is heartbreaking,” Whitmer said. “Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practice their faith in peace. Antisemitism and violence have no place in Michigan”
Attorney General Dana Nessel issued this statement:
My heart is with the congregation and community of Temple Israel as law enforcement responds to reports of an active shooter. We are closely monitoring the situation and urge residents to follow the requests of local law enforcement as they work to secure the area and protect lives.Antisemitism has no place in Michigan and cannot be tolerated. In moments like these, it’s more important than ever that we come together, stand with our neighbors, confront hate whenever it appears, and build stronger communities.
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The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and multiple other agencies are responding to an “active shooter situation” at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Mich.
Temple Israel, located on West Walnut Lake Road, is the nation’s largest Reform synagogue, according to their website.
Deputies say emergency personnel are clearing the public. Agencies with the Jewish Federation of Detroit are also on a precautionary lockdown, according to the non-profit on Facebook.
In addition, out of an abundance of caution, the Ann Arbor Police Department has directed officers to increase patrols and respond to churches and schools throughout the city as a safety measure.
“At this time, there is no known threat to the Ann Arbor community. These steps are being taken proactively to help ensure the safety and reassurance of our residents,” officials said. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our entire community.”
The FBI is also responding to the scene.
Michigan State Police are asking the public to stay clear of the area.
This is a developing story. Stay with us as we work to bring you more information.