A shocking and deeply disturbing attack at a synagogue in West Bloomfield Township has left the community shaken after a man rammed a truck into the building and opened fire Thursday afternoon. The violent incident triggered a large-scale response from law enforcement and emergency personnel across Oakland County. Authorities say the suspect, identified by sources as Ayman Ghazali, died during the confrontation.
The attack occurred shortly after 12:30 p.m. at Temple Israel along Walnut Lake Road. Investigators say the suspect drove a truck directly into the synagogue, reportedly forcing his way into the building and driving down a hallway. Moments later, shots were fired, prompting emergency calls and sending congregants and staff into lockdown as police rushed to the scene.
A member of the synagogue’s security team quickly confronted the suspect as the situation unfolded. During the confrontation, the security guard opened fire in an attempt to stop the attacker. Authorities say the suspect’s truck eventually caught fire during the incident, and the suspect was later confirmed dead. According to officials, the security guard was struck by the vehicle when it breached the building and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Michael Bouchard of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office said the injured security guard was part of the synagogue’s protective team and was the only person inside the building reported injured. Officials confirmed that no congregants, staff members, or children inside the synagogue were harmed during the attack.
Medical officials with Henry Ford Health said eight first responders were also treated at nearby hospitals following the response. Authorities revealed that the vehicle involved in the attack was registered to a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Lebanon who resides in Dearborn. Investigators noted that the suspect had recently experienced a personal tragedy overseas, though officials have not confirmed whether it played any role in the attack.
Federal and local investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to assist local authorities, with Director Kash Patel confirming federal involvement in the investigation. Meanwhile, Jewish Federations of North America has issued a nationwide advisory urging Jewish institutions to implement immediate security lockouts. In a statement, Temple Israel confirmed that all 140 students in its childhood education center were safe and accounted for, and thanked Shenandoah Country Club for sheltering students and staff during the frighte
