Jewish Organizations In Detroit Told To Lock Down Amid Synagogue Attack

All Jewish organizations in the Detroit area were advised to enter “lockout protocol” amid reports of an active shooter at a synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan.

“We are aware of a security incident at Temple Israel. We are advising all Jewish organizations to go into lockout protocol – nobody in or out of your building. More information to follow,” the Jewish Federation of Detroit advised in a statement.

Reports indicate that a car slammed into the temple, after which the driver exchanged fire with security before being killed. The suspect, who reportedly attempted to set off an explosive device, is dead, according to the Associated Press.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard told people to shelter in place for at least a mile around the temple while law enforcement secures the scene. He said that “nobody at the moment has been confirmed to be hurt except potentially the shooter.”

“We’re looking to see if there’s more than one person, we’re still trying to figure that out, we’re trying to get access to the video at the moment,” he said, adding they were trying to confirm there were no assailants on foot.

Bouchard said that parents are looking to reunite with their kids at the local Jewish Center.

“It’s going to be secured by law enforcement, so no fear there. If you have nothing to do with the situation, don’t go there,” he said. He also said that there would be extra security in place at Jewish facilities in the area.

“All Jewish facilities in the area are going to have a lot of extra presence around it until we figure this out,” he said.

The FBI is also on the scene.

“FBI personnel are on the scene 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,” FBI Director Kash Patel said.