WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. (WZMQ) – Authorities are responding to reports of an active shooter at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, according to statements from state officials Thursday.
In a statement, Gretchen Whitmer said her office is working with the Michigan State Police to gather more information about the situation.
“I am tracking reports of an active shooting at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. We are working with Michigan State Police to get more information,” Whitmer said. “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. Thank you to law enforcement for their swift action.”
Ranjeev Puri, the Democratic leader in the Michigan House of Representatives, also said lawmakers are monitoring the situation.
“Everyone in this country has the right, and deserves the peace of mind, to practice their religion freely and without fear of violence,” Puri said in a statement. “House Democrats are monitoring the situation at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, and as we await details from local law enforcement, our hearts and thoughts are with the community.”
Dana Nessel, Michigan’s attorney general, also issued a statement as reports of the incident emerged.
“My heart is with the congregation and community of Temple Israel as law enforcement responds to reports of an active shooter,” Nessel said. “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.”
The attorney general’s office noted that the Michigan Department of Attorney General launched a Hate Crimes & Domestic Terrorism Unit in 2019 and that the Michigan State Police provides information online about reporting or identifying suspicious behavior related to potential hate crimes.
Authorities have not yet released full details about the reported incident.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
