During a Friday evening press conference with multiple law enforcement agencies about the attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township, a timeline of events and new details were released, including that the suspect shot and killed himself during a gunfight with security.
The FBI confirmed the suspect was 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a Dearborn Heights resident. Ghazali had no previous criminal history, no registered weapons and had not been involved with any previous FBI investigations, said Jennifer Runyan, special agent in charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office.
RAW VIDEO: Law enforcement holds a news conference updating Temple Israel Attack
The timeline for the events Thursday are below:
9:58 a.m.: Suspect drives Ford F-150 into parking lot of Temple Israel10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.: Suspect remains inside parked vehicle with no one else or other vehicles associated with him12:19 p.m.: Suspect drives through Door 5, hitting security guard12:20 p.m.: Vehicle gets jammed between hallway walls and suspect begins firing his gun through windshield.After that, Ghazali and a security guard engage in a gunfight through the rear window of the vehicle. Ghazali then became trapped since the vehicle was jammed in the hallway.12:22 p.m. Second guard engages suspect in gunfight from front of the vehicle. Then, the vehicles engine compartment caught fire. Ghazali then shot himself in the head.
Runyan says commercial-grade fireworks were found in the bed of the pickup truck as well as several jugs of flammable liquid that's believed to be gasoline. Some of that was consumed in the fire.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard says 605 law enforcement officers responded to the scene from 42 different agencies.
He says a total of 63 law enforcement officers were sent to the hospital from smoke inhalation. First responders continued to pour into the building despite the fire to make sure there was no threat and to evacuate the innocent.
Related video: What we're learning about the suspect in the attack on Temple Israel as feds search his home What we're learning about the suspect in the attack on Temple Israel
Bouchard says training within the last month at Temple Israel was a coincidence, despite some questioning the timing.
Were training all the time as agencies with our partners, our houses of worship, our schools. That was one of those trainings. There was no credible intelligence that it was about to get hit, the sheriff said.
To the partners across the state, federal agencies and more, "thank you for your invaluable assistance during one of the darkest days in West Bloomfield Township's history," West Bloomfield Township Police Chief Dale Young said.
Officials said there are no new known threats to the community.
More than 30,000 people across metro Detroit are without power Friday afternoon amid strong winds throughout the area.
According to the DTE Energy Outage Map, there are 30,505 customers without power throughout the area. That's as of 1:40 p.m.
It comes amid a High Wind Warning for metro Detroit through 10 pm. Friday. Around 1:20 p.m., Detroit Metro Airport had a peak wind gust of 71 mph. Below are the peak wind gusts as of 1:20 p.m. Friday.
DTE has issued a storm alert, saying that more than 1,000 storm response team members are in the field and ready to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
Below is the breakdown by county as of 1:40 p.m.
Wayne - 13,127 Oakland - 9,215 Macomb - 4,126 Monroe - 1,979 Washtenaw - 1,633 Lapeer - 1,241 St. Clair - 221 Livingston - 159 Sanilac - 115
The company is reminding people to stay at least 25 feet from any downed power lines and assume they are live and dangerous.
An armed suspect is dead after ramming a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township Thursday afternoon, in what officials say was a targeted attack that left 30 first responders being treated for smoke inhalation.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard confirmed the suspect drove into the building and was engaged by security. The suspect was found deceased in the vehicle.
Watch our coverage below: Suspect in Temple Israel attack identified as naturalized citizen from Lebanon
No children or staff members were injured in the attack.
Authorities were called around 12:19 p.m. and arrived at the temple, located off Walnut Lake Road near Drake Road, in under five minutes.
The Associated Press reported the suspect was armed with a rifle. The Associated Press is also reporting that the Department of Homeland Security has identified the suspect as 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a naturalized citizen born in Lebanon.
Authorities say the suspect was killed by security.
Bouchard said a lead member of the temple's security team was struck by the vehicle when the suspect breached the building. That person was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard provides details below: Sheriff Bouchard confirms shooter is dead, no kids hurt in West Bloomfield temple shooting
Henry Ford Health confirmed that Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital are caring for eight first responders.
During an evening news conference, Bouchard said 30 first responders are being treated for smoke inhalation. He said the area of the building where the incident occurred was "engulfed" and that it has not yet been determined what triggered the fire.
"It's been complicated because there's been some fire to say the least with that vehicle. We believe that individual is deceased," Bouchard said. "No kids this is the important thing no kids or no staff was injured whatsoever."
Watch that full press conference below: Law enforcement gives update after attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township
The FBI announced 2 tiplines as part of the investigation. The digital media tipline is fbi.gov/westbloomfieldattack, and callers can also reach the bureau at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Witness accounts
Dustin Shaw, a man who was working at Temple Israel and called 911 after witnessing the suspect breach the building, spoke with us about what he saw. Shaw said he was toward the back of the building setting up for an event when he heard "a huge crash."
"So, me and my coworkers, we walk over and someone screams out 'call 911,' so I called 911 immediately and I saw someone lying on the ground and that person happened to be one of the head of security who got hit by the car," Shaw said.
Shaw said he heard gunshots ring out right after.
Watch our conversation with Dustin Shaw below: Man who called 911 recounts moments of terror at Temple Israel
"Obviously, the guy who drove the truck into the temple was armed, so our guy did our job, so my hat's off to him. I'm so happy that everyone made it out safe and that the children were OK and everyone got evacuated," Shaw said. "For our temple to be targeted, it makes me so sad."
Rabbi Arianna Gordon was inside Temple Israel when the attack happened.
I am so deeply grateful to local law enforcement, to our Temple Israel security team, to our early childhood teachers, Gordon said. My office was pretty close to where the incident happened and so I knew almost immediately that something was going on.
There were about 140 children inside attending day care and preschool programs.
Every single one of those groups did exactly what they were supposed to do to ensure that all of our students who were in the building and all of our teachers got out safely, Gordon said.
After the attack, parents who had children inside the temple were able to reunite with them at the Jewish Community Center about a mile away.
Boris Krasnow, a parent whose 1-year-old son was at the temple's day care, described the experience of waiting for information.
"It's just really surreal. I mean, you hear about this stuff all the time, but in the moment, it's strange how almost calm you are because you can't afford to panic. Just keep refreshing your phone trying to find out what's going on," Krasnow said.
Watch our conversation with Boris Krasnow below: 'Really surreal': Parent of baby at Temple Israel recalls scary moments
Krasnow said his family wasn't able to relax until after they learned the suspect was killed.
"I think the hard part was all the mixed information we were getting. At one point, we heard we were able to go get my son. We thought things were good. But then we looked it up and we didn't see that they said that they had the shooter, so it was still an active situation," Krasnow said.
A neighbor who identified himself only as Sheldon said his wife was home at the time of the attack.
"My wife was home and she was cleaning the bathroom upstairs, and she heard sirens coming in and out," Sheldon said. "She was like 'what is that?' and she heard a couple of fireworks noises. She called me and she said 'I don't know if it's gunshots or something', and then after that, I was like 'I have to go home' and I drove home and this is all that happened."
"There were so many cop cars, different cities and everything," Sheldon continued. "All my friends were texting me to see if everything was okay...I think with those two houses, they took in some kids and some teachers but the other neighbors were telling me that they were okay, so hopefully that's the case."
Watch Chopper 7 at the scene: Chopper 7 video shows massive police response to active shooter at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield
ATF and FBI respond
ATF Special Agent in Charge James Dier confirmed the suspect's death was consistent with what he had been told and addressed the ATF's role in the investigation.
"This is a potential mass casualty incident involving a burning vehicle, destruction to a temple, by the vehicle, as well as a rifle that was involved. So we're gonna bring our expertise to the table with our arson investigators. We've got certified arson investigators across the country we've got five here in Michigan that are on scene right now. We've also got our certified bomb techs and our certified explosive experts on scene as well, just in case there's anything inside that vehicle. We're gonna assist the Michigan State Police and the FBI in that fire scene. We're gonna recover the firearm that was involved in this, trace it to the very last purchaser of that firearm, where it was imported from, and try to determine how this individual came into possession of it," Dier said.
Hear from the James Dier below: ATF is told Temple Israel shooter is dead in Interview with 7's Simon Shayket
Official responses
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement on the attack.
"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. 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," Whitmer said.
Sen. Elissa Slotkin also spoke with members of the press in Washington about the situation.
Watch Sen. Elissa Slotkin speak below: RAW VIDEO: Senator Elissa Slotkin speaks on incident at Temple Israel
Per ABC News and Scripps News, Slotkin said: "I know this place very well. Grew up not far from there. And law enforcement are still securing the scene. I'm not going to get ahead of the police. We have to listen to the warnings that they are putting out to the local community, that includes friends and family of mine who are sheltering in place and follow law enforcement. But I will just say everyone deserves the right to worship in peace. Everyone and an act of antisemitism, an act of violence, of hate, should be treated to the fullest extent of the law. And I'm so sick of another one of these incidents all the time in my community, across the country. And I just -- I think we need to acknowledge that we have a problem, and I'm just sick about it. So we will keep people posted. More will come out. We will learn about the intentions of this madman. But in the meantime, this is very personal, and I am -- I'm just so sick of communities of all kinds, not being able to worship in peace and this time the Jewish community is again on the receiving end of abhorrent violence and I'm just I'm over it."
Henry Ford Health released a statement on the first responders being treated at its hospitals.
"The emergency medicine teams at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital are currently caring for eight first responders following this afternoon's incident at Temple Israel. Further requests for updates on their conditions should be directed to law enforcement. Our hearts go out to the community at Temple Israel and anyone who is impacted by this this frightening event. There is absolutely no place for violence in our community," the statement read.
The Jewish Federation of Detroit released an updated statement saying that while a large security presence remained at Temple Israel, all other Jewish organizations were no longer required to be in lockdown or lockout protocol.
"We ask community members to refrain from speculation or sharing unconfirmed information - especially on social media," the statement read.
Temple Israel also posted a statement on its Facebook page. It reads:
"Dear Temple Israel Family,"Everyone is safe. All 140 students in our Susan and Harold Loss Early Childhood Center, our amazing staff, our courageous teachers, and our heroic security personnel are all accounted for and safe."As you have no doubt heard, Temple Israel was the victim of a terrorist gunman who was confronted and neutralized by our security personnel who are truly heroes. Our teachers followed their training and kept the children safe and calm."We are deeply and humbly grateful to our teachers, staff, security, law enforcement, and Shenendoah Country Club that welcomed us, fed us, and sheltered our staff, teachers, children, and parents. What incredible neighbors we have. What incredible police force we haveThis note is coming to you before we know anything about our future programming or services, or any investigation. We wanted you to know we are safe, and we love you all."
Michigan State Police said that troopers are increasing patrols at other places of worship in the district. Dearborn police also said they are increasing patrols around schools and houses of worship as a proactive measure, stressing there is no known threat at this time.
There was a shelter in place for Walnut Lake and Drake that has been lifted.
Last week, we spoke with Temple Israel Rabbi Josh Bennett amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Bennett said the synagogue was ramping up security at that time.
Watch the full interview with Temple Israel Rabbi Josh Bennett below: Temple Israel Rabbi Josh Bennett speaks to WXYZ
People are asked to continue to avoid the area. Police agencies are also responding to other temples in the area to provide security out of an abundance of caution.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
A man who was working at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township and called 911 after witnessing an armed suspect breach the building Thursday afternoon spoke with 7 News Detroit.
Authorities say the suspect is dead after the person rammed a vehicle into Temple Israel, which led to a security guard engaging the suspect in gunfire.
Watch our conversation with the witness below: Man who called 911 recounts moments of terror at Temple Israel
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard says a lead member of the temple's security team was hit by the vehicle when the suspect breached the building. No other injuries of staff or children have been reported.
Dustin Shaw says he was toward the back of the building setting up for an event when he heard a huge crash.
So, me and my coworkers, we walk over and someone screams out call 911, so I called 911 immediately and I saw someone lying on the ground and that person happened to be one of the head of security who got hit by the car, Shaw said.
Related video: Sheriff Bouchard confirms shooter is dead, no kids hurt in West Bloomfield temple shooting Sheriff Bouchard confirms shooter is dead, no kids hurt in West Bloomfield synagogue shooting
Shaw says he heard gunshots ring out right after.
Obviously, the guy who drove the truck into the temple was armed, so our guy did our job, so my hats off to him. Im so happy that everyone made it out safe and that the children were OK and everyone got evacuated, Shaw said.
He described the moments as tragic and shocking.
For our temple to be targeted, it makes me so sad, Shaw said.
Related video: 'Really surreal': Parent of baby at Temple Israel recalls scary moments 'Really surreal': Parent of baby at Temple Israel recalls scary moments
He says when he got into his car and drove away from the scene, he saw multiple police cars rushing to the scene.
Henry Ford Health confirms that Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital are caring for eight first responders.
Authorities say an armed suspect is dead after the person rammed a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township on Thursday afternoon, which led to a security guard engaging the suspect in gunfire.
Officials say they were called around 12:19 p.m. and arrived to the temple off of Walnut Lake Road near Drake Road in under five minutes.
Watch our coverage below: Suspect in Temple Israel attack identified as naturalized citizen from Lebanon
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard says a lead member of the temple's security team was hit by the vehicle when the suspect breached the building. No other injuries of staff or children have been reported. Henry Ford Health confirms that Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital are caring for eight first responders.
People were asked to avoid the area as investigators were at the scene. We're told that police agencies are also responding to other temples in the area to provide security out of an abundance of caution.
Read the latest updates below
2 p.m. Friday
7 News Detroit obtained viewer video that shows a charred vehicle being towed followed by multiple law enforcement vehicles on Thursday around midnight near Telegraph and Orchard Lake roads:
Viewer video shows suspect vehicle being towed after Temple Israel attack
12:42 p.m. Friday
A town official in Mashghara, Lebanon, told ABC News that the suspect's family was killed in an Israeli airstrike on the town on the night on March 5.
That town official told ABC that Ayman Ghazali's two brothers, Qassem and Ibrahim, and Ibrahim's two children, a 4-year-old girl and 7-year-old boy, were killed. Ibrahim's wife was also critically injured in the airstrike and is currently in the hospital with a fractured skull, broken pelvis and broken legs.
10:50 a.m. Friday
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard provided an update to 7 News Detroit on Friday, saying more than 50 first responders are being treated for smoke inhalation following Thursday's attack on Temple Israel.
9:30 a.m. Friday
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Sen. Elissa Slotkin, Temple Israel Rabbi Arianna Gordon and others spoke at a press conference on Friday, one day after the attack at the temple in West Bloomfield Township.
The press conference came after a briefing with law enforcement officials on the latest updates regarding the attack.
During the press conference, Whitmer thanked the community, law enforcement officers and the Temple's security team, who killed the suspect after he crashed into the Temple.
"Yesterdays attack was antisemitism. It was hate. Plain and simple. We will fight this ancient and rampant evil. We will stand together as we do it. We will call it out. We must lower the rhetoric in this state and country," Whitmer said during the press conference.
Slotkin said Temple Israel is a place that she has a personal connection to, and said that people have a responsiblity to call out antisemitism, no matter where it's coming from.
You can watch the full press conference in the video below
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, others speak after Temple Israel attack
8:30 a.m. Friday
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is set to join other law enforcement officials at a press conference on Friday morning about the Temple Israel attack.
7 News Detroit Anchor Keenan Smith was live outside of Temple Israel all morning long on Friday, and spoke one-on-one with Rabbi Josh Bennett.
You can see the full interview in the video below
Rabbi Josh Bennett speaks with 7 News Detroit one day after Temple Israel attack
Overnight Thursday into Friday
Overnight, agents from the FBI and Joint Terrorism Task Force were seen searching the home of 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, the suspect in the attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township on Thursday.
What we're learning about the suspect in the attack on Temple Israel
9:04 p.m.
An Associated Press report says the Department of Homeland Security has identified the suspect as 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali.
The report:
WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. (AP) The armed man who rammed his vehicle into one of the nations largest Reform synagogues has been identified as 41-year-old Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a naturalized citizen born in Lebanon, according to federal officials. Ghazali came to the U.S. in 2011 on an IR1 immigrant visa as the spouse of a U.S. citizen and was granted U.S. citizenship in 2016, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Federal investigators have called the crime an act of violence targeting the Jewish community.
6:28 p.m.
During an evening news conference, Sheriff Michael Bouchard says 30 first responders are being treated for smoke inhalation. He said the area of the building where the incident occurred was "engulfed." He said it has not yet been determined what triggered the fire.
You can watch the full news conference below: Law enforcement gives update after attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township
The FBI announced two tiplines as part of the investigation. The digital media tipline is fbi.gov/westbloomfieldattack, and you can also call 1-800-CALL-FBI
5:36 p.m.
A man who was working at Temple Israel and called 911 after witnessing the suspect breach the building spoke with 7 News Detroit.
Dustin Shaw says he was toward the back of the building setting up for an event when he heard a huge crash.
So, me and my coworkers, we walk over and someone screams out call 911, so I called 911 immediately and I saw someone lying on the ground and that person happened to be one of the head of security who got hit by the car, Shaw said.
Watch our conversation with Dustin Shaw below: Man who called 911 recounts moments of terror at Temple Israel
Shaw says he heard gunshots ring out right after.
Obviously, the guy who drove the truck into the temple was armed, so our guy did our job, so my hats off to him. Im so happy that everyone made it out safe and that the children were OK and everyone got evacuated, Shaw said.
He described the moments as tragic and shocking.
For our temple to be targeted, it makes me so sad, Shaw said.
He says when he got into his car and drove away from the scene, he saw multiple police cars rushing to the scene.
5 p.m.
Boris Krasnow, a parent whose 1-year-old son was at the temples day care when the attack happened, spoke with 7 News Detroit over the phone.
Its just really surreal. I mean, you hear about this stuff all the time, but in the moment, its strange how almost calm you are because you cant afford to panic. Just keep refreshing your phone trying to find out whats going on, Krasnow said.
Watch the conversation with Boris Krasnow below: 'Really surreal': Parent of baby at Temple Israel recalls scary moments
He says his family wasnt able to relax until after they learned the suspect was killed.
I think the hard part was all the mixed information we were getting. At one point, we heard we were able to go get my son. We thought things were good. But then we looked it up and we didnt see that they said that they had the shooter, so it was still an active situation, Krasnow said.
4:24 p.m.
Henry Ford Health says two of its hospitals are treating eight first responders after the attack on Temple Israel.
Full statement below:
"The emergency medicine teams at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital and Henry Ford Providence Novi Hospital are currently caring for eight first responders following this afternoons incident at Temple Israel. Further requests for updates on their conditions should be directed to law enforcement.Our hearts go out to the community at Temple Israel and anyone who is impacted by this this frightening event. There is absolutely no place for violence in our community."
4:10 p.m.
Temple Israel has posted a statement on their Facebook page. It reads as follows:
Dear Temple Israel Family, Everyone is safe. All 140 students in our Susan and Harold Loss Early Childhood Center, our amazing staff, our courageous teachers, and our heroic security personnel are all accounted for and safe. As you have no doubt heard, Temple Israel was the victim of a terrorist gunman who was confronted and neutralized by our security personnel who are truly heroes. Our teachers followed their training and kept the children safe and calm. We are deeply and humbly grateful to our teachers, staff, security, law enforcement, and Shenendoah Country Club that welcomed us, fed us, and sheltered our staff, teachers, children, and parents. What incredible neighbors we have. What incredible police force we have This note is coming to you before we know anything about our future programming or services, or any investigation. We wanted you to know we are safe, and we love you all.
3:15 p.m.
The shelter in place for Walnut Lake and Drake has been lifted. People are asked to avoid Walnut Lake between Farmington and Halstead.
2:25 p.m.
Senator Elissa Slotkin spoke with members of the press in Washington about the situation.
RAW VIDEO: Senator Elissa Slotkin speaks on incident at Temple Israel RAW VIDEO: Senator Elissa Slotkin speaks on incident at Temple Israel
Per ABC News and Scripps News, Slotkin said:
I know this place very well. Grew up not far from there. And law enforcement are still securing the scene. I'm not going to get ahead of the police. We have to listen to the warnings that they are putting out to the local community, that includes friends and family of mine who are sheltering in place and follow law enforcement. But I will just say everyone deserves the right to worship in peace. Everyone and an act of antisemitism, an act of violence, of hate, should be treated to the fullest extent of the law. And I'm so sick of another one of these incidents all the time in my community, across the country. And I just -- I think we need to acknowledge that we have a problem, and I'm just sick about it. So we will keep people posted. More will come out. We will learn about the intentions of this madman. But in the meantime, this is very personal, and I am -- I'm just so sick of communities of all kinds, not being able to worship in peace and this time the Jewish community is again on the receiving end of abhorrent violence and I'm just -- I'm over it.
2:46 p.m.
The Jewish Federation of Detroit has released an updated statement:
"We have received word that while there is still a large security presence at Temple Israel, all other Jewish organizations are no longer required to be in lockdown or lockout protocol. There will continue to be a strong police and security presence throughout the community.We ask community members to refrain from speculation or sharing unconfirmed information - especially on social media."
2:36 p.m.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard confirmed that the suspected shooter at Temple Israel is dead. He said the suspect drove into the building and was engaged by security.
The sheriff said the suspect was found deceased in the vehicle. He said it's been complicated due to fire involving the vehicle.
No kids this is the important thing no kids or no staff was injured whatsoever, Bouchard said, adding that a person on the temples security team was hit by the vehicle.
That person was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Its been complicated because theres been some fire to say the least with that vehicle. We believe that individual is deceased, Bouchard said.
Watch the latest from Sheriff Bouchard in the video player below Sheriff Bouchard confirms shooter is dead, no kids hurt in West Bloomfield synagogue shooting
Officials are still working to clear the area.
2:25 pm.
The Associated Press is reporting that the man who rammed Temple Israel was armed with a rifle, and he was killed by security.
2:23 p.m.
Just last week, 7 News Detroit Reporter Ruta Ulcinaite spoke with Temple Israel Rabbi Josh Bennett amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Bennett said that the synagogue was ramping up security.
You can see their full interview in the video below
Temple Israel Rabbi Josh Bennett speaks to WXYZ
2:22 p.m.
Dearborn police have issued a statement on the situation, saying they are aware of what is happening. They also say, out of an abundance of caution, they are increasing patrols around schools and houses of worship in that community. They stress these are proactive measures and there is no known threat at this time.
2:10 p.m.
AP is reporting that their sources say the suspect is dead. 7 News Detroit is being told by law enforcement officials at the scene that they are being told that as well.
When asked about reports that the suspect was dead, ATF Special Agent in Charge James Dier said, "That's consistent reporting, that's consistent with everything I've been told."
Dier also addressed the ATF's role in the investigation, saying, "This is a potential mass casualty incident involving a burning vehicle, destruction to a temple, by the vehicle, as well as a rifle that was involved. So we're gonna bring our expertise to the table with our arson investigators, we've got certified arson investigators across the country, we've got 5 here in Michigan that are on scene right now, we've also got our certified bomb techs and our certified explosive experts on scene as well, just in case there's anything inside that vehicle. We're gonna assist the Michigan State Police and the FBI in that fire scene. We're gonna recover the firearm that was involved in this, trace it to the very last purchaser of that firearm, where it was imported from, and try to determine how this individual came into possession of it."
ATF is told Temple Israel shooter is dead in Interview with 7's Simon Shayket
1:54 p.m.
A neighbor whose family was home at the time of the shooting described what he heard and saw.
"My wife was home and she was cleaning the bathroom upstairs, and she heard sirens coming in and out," Sheldon told us. "She was like 'what is that?' and she heard a couple of fireworks noises. She called me and she said 'I don't know if it's gunshots or something', and then after that, I was like 'I have to go home' and I drove home and this is all that happened.
"There were so many cop cars, different cities and everything," Sheldon continued. "All my friends were texting me to see if everything was okay...I think with those two houses, they took in some kids and some teachers but the other neighbors were telling me that they were okay, so hopefully that's the case."
1:47 p.m.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has issued a statement about the situation. You can read it below:
pic.twitter.com/kMRBH1diKe Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) March 12, 2026I am tracking reports of an active shooting at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. We are working with Michigan State Police to get more information.This is heartbreaking. Michigans 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 everyones safety.Thank you to law enforcement for their swift action.
1:40 p.m.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard provided a brief update to the media about an hour after reports of an active shooter at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township.
You can watch the update from Bouchard in the video below
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard speaks after active shooter at Temple Israel
Right now, Bouchard said that no one at the moment has been confirmed to be hurt, except, potentially, the shooter.
Bouchard said the preliminary investigation found that a suspect came to the temple, security saw him, and engaged in a gunfire with the suspect.
"We're not getting any active stimulus at the moment," Bouchard said. They are looking to see if there is more than one person.
Police said there is a shelter-in-place for a one-mile radius from the temple as they continue to investigate.
1:38 p.m.
The FBI office in Detroit and FBI Director Kash Patel have both responded to the situation on X, the social media network formerly known as Twitter.
The FBI Detroit Field Office is responding to reports of an active shooter situation in West Bloomfield, Michigan. Additional updates will be provided on social media as they become available. pic.twitter.com/EdTuvOEOhU FBI Detroit (@FBIDetroit) March 12, 2026 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. @FBIDetroit FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 12, 2026
1:30 p.m.
According to ABC News, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are responding to the active shooter at Temple Israel.
1:20 p.m.
Michigan State Police said it is aware of an active shooting incident at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township.
"We are asking for community members to stay away from the area to allow for police response. Troopers are also increasing patrols at other places of worship in the district," the statement from MSP reads.
1 p.m.
The Jewish Federation of Detroit released a statement that said they are aware of a "security incident" at Temple Israel.
The full statement says,
"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."
12:59 pm.
Chopper 7 was over the scene of Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township after reports of an active shooter. Video from the chopper showed a massive police response and also black smoke coming out of a part of the synagogue.
You can see the video from Chopper 7 below
Chopper 7 video shows massive police response to active shooter at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield
12:58 p.m.
Text messages sent to 7 News Detroit said that Bloomfield Hills Schools have been placed in secure mode, and all students and employees are safe and asked to stay inside until further notice.
12:35 p.m.
There are reports of an active shooter at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township. An alert sent out by Farmington Hills police indicated there is an active shooter event and West Bloomfield police also confirmed.
7 News Detroit has crews on the way to the scene and will provide updates as we learn more.
The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority on Wednesday announced toll rates for the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
Drivers of passenger vehicles will pay a standard toll fee of $8 CAD/$5.75 USD per crossing. For members of the new toll discount program called "Breakaway," drivers will receive a 25% discount on rates, according to the WDBA.
Commercial trucks, oversized vehicles and larger passenger vehicles will pay a standard toll of $12 CAD/$8.75 USD per axle; the Breakaway rate will be $9.60 CAD/$6.90 USD per axle.
The Breakaway program will be available for business accounts at first, with a rollout of personal accounts at a later date. The program reportedly allows for drivers to proceed to any open toll lane and have charges applied to their accounts. For more information and registration, click here.
Announcing our toll rates and launching Breakaway represent a significant step in preparing to open the Gordie Howe International Bridge to traffic. Weve established
a customer-focused toll program that helps travellers and businesses move goods, grow businesses, and cross the border toward their destination with flexibility and convenience," said Chuck Andary, Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Legal Officer, Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, in a statement.
According to the WDBA, toll rates were established based on a range of factors that took into account affordability and the amenities the bridge offers.
The bridge is currently undergoing quality reviews, testing, and commissioning ahead of its projected opening this spring. An exact date has not yet been set, and, according to the bridge authority, it is contingent on the completion of those activities.
The boil water advisories in Novi and Walled Lake have now been lifted following a 48-inch water main break on 14 Mile Road in Farmington Hills early Saturday morning.
The Great Lakes Water Authority announced on Wednesday morning that the second set of water quality tests have come back clear and lifted the advisories.
Crews are continuing to work on the original site as well as replace 60 additional feet of main that's west of the break site; both replacements should be done by March 15, GLWA says.
I want to thank the residents and businesses of Novi and Walled Lake for the patience as we work to first return water service and then lift the boil water advisories caused by the break on our 14 mile water main, said Suzanne R. Coffey, Chief Executive Officer, GLWA, in a statement. You have not received the service from GLWA that you deserve or require and for that I am sincerely sorry. The number and frequency of breaks on this water main are unacceptable, and we are committed to developing a comprehensive and long-term solution to help avoid future catastrophic failures of this water main.
Walled Lake and a portion of Novi are under a boil water advisory as the Great Lakes Water Authority works to isolate a 48-inch water main break at 14 Mile and Verona in Farmington Hills.
Watch video from the scene in the player below: Massive water main break impacting multiple communities
GLWA also reports Wixom, Commerce Township, West Bloomfield Township, and Farmington Hills may also be experiencing reduced water pressure at this time.
The city of Novi says water pressure alarms started going off early this morning.
GLWA said the break appears to be the result of a transient pressure wave after an external power interruption to a GLWA service center.
Water trucks have also been sent to Walled Lake and Novi to help impacted residents.
Here are the locations:
Novi
Novi Department of Public Works, 26300 Lee BeGole Drive Village Oaks Elementary School, 23333 Willowbrook (until 4 p.m.)
Residents are advised to bring containers.
Walled Lake
Walled Lake Municipal Complex, 1499 E. West Maple Road
Former University of Michigan head football coach Sherrone Moore has taken a plea deal in his case, pleading no contest to two misdemeanor charges on Friday.
Watch the video report below: Sherrone Moore strikes plea deal
Moore was previously charged with third-degree home invasion, misdemeanor stalking, and misdemeanor breaking and entering. In the plea agreement, those charges were dismissed. Two new misdemeanor charges of malicious use of a telecommunications device in the context of a domestic relationship and trespass were added. On Friday, he pleaded no contest to the two additional charges.
Watch Sherrone Moore take plea deal in the video player below: RAW VIDEO: Sherrone Moore enters a plea agreement during court hearing
The negotiated disposition involved dismissal of 3 charges that had been charged, that was not mentioned earlier. That is absolutely correct, said Moore's attorney, Ellen Michaels. "All charges against Mr. Moore were not supported by facts and law. The dismissal validates concerns we raised about the investigation from the beginning. He is pleased to put this behind him and move forward.
What we do believe evidence supports is criminal behavior, in the context of an intimate partner relationship, said Kati Rezmierski, Assistant Prosecutor for Washtenaw County.
Moore's sentencing in the case has been scheduled for April 14.
Previous coverage: Former Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore in jail after firing Former Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore in jail after firing
This all stems from Moore's alleged confrontation with a former staffer with whom he reportedly had an affair. The confrontation reportedly followed his firing by the university in December.
Today's evidentiary hearing was going to center on a motion from Moores attorney to void the arrest warrant and dismiss the complaintarguing prosecutors failed to disclose an employee-employer relationship between Moore and the complainant.
Watch more of our previous coverage below: Judge orders evidentiary hearing held in Sherrone Moore case Former U-M head football coach Sherrone Moore appears in court for Probable Cause conference
A Detroit mother has been charged with unsafe storage of a weapon after her six-year-old daughter was accidentally shot and killed in a car in Detroit earlier this week.
Watch our previous coverage
6-year-old girl accidentally shot and killed inside car with unsecured gun
According to police, the child's mother came to a plaza in the area of Gratiot and Harper avenues around noon on Monday, March 2, to get food.
We're told the mother went inside and left five children in the car unattended. While they were in the car, the child was shot with the unsecured gun by her 11-year-old brother. Detroit police say the children are all 12 years old and younger.
Tonya Charisse-Annie Johnson, 41, has been charged with:
Firearms Safe Storage Violations Premises Under Individual's Control Minor Present and Inflicted Death upon Self or Another Three counts of Second-Degree Child Abuse Four counts of Felony Firearm
She is expected to appear in court again later this afternoon.
The alleged facts of this case are among the worst child safe storage cases that we have seen. This will affect these children forever. The loss of the life of one of their siblings in a closed compartment of the defendants car cannot be unseen, said Prosecutor Kym Worthy.
Police on Wednesday said a second suspect, 18-year-old Jason Anthony Ford Jr. of Rochester, was arrested. Ford was formally charged on charges of aggravated assault.
Police say the assault was an isolated incident. The victim and suspects are not students at the university, police said.
Oakland County is taking action to prevent future problems at Childrens Village after routine testing detected low levels of Legionella bacteria at two buildings.
The discovery was made in the school building and the boys secure detention center.
County officials stress there are no known cases of Legionnaires disease, and the overall risk is low.
Crews have installed specialized filters and flushed the water systems to clear the lines.
Previous report: Legionella bacteria discovered in more Oakland County buildings; water testing at jail underway Legionella found in 2 more Oakland Co. buildings; water testing at jail underway
The 7 Investigators were the first to report that Legionella bacteria was discovered inside the Sheriff's office building 38E in early December. County officials confirmed that the potentially deadly bacteria was also later found inside mens bathrooms on the first and third floors, and in two sinks in the cafeteria inside the Oakland County Circuit Court building.
Previous report: 'Inexcusable.' County leaders frustrated over delay in Legionnaires' response 'Inexcusable.' County leaders frustrated over delay in Legionnaires' response
The 7 Investigators confirmed from county officials that there was not a plan in place to regularly monitor the water system that feeds all 45 buildings that house the countys 5,300 employees.
Previous report: Legionella bacteria discovered inside Oakland County Circuit Court Legionella bacteria discovered inside Oakland County Circuit Court
It may be your last shot to own a piece of Detroit history. Dittrich Furs is putting more coats on the shelves after the first round of closing sales emptied the racks.
The iconic fur store is set to close its doors at the end of next month after 133 years in business.
After that announcement in January, long lines stretched down the block. Workers are getting more coats in place after a restock.
Previous report: Detroit's iconic Dittrich Fur closes after 132 years, ending family legacy in New Center Iconic Dittrich Fur closes after 132 years, ending family legacy in Detroit
The 70% off sale starts this Friday. Doors are set to open at 10 a.m.
A legendary spot in the heart of Detroit is ready for its comeback. Checker Bar in Cadillac Square reopens Wednesday.
Watch Ryan Marshall's report below
Checker Bar reopens in Detroit's Cadillac Square after fire forced closure
The historic watering hole closed more than a year ago following a fire. The owner says while the space is refreshed, the vintage vibe and famous burgers are here to stay.
We took the best part of Checker, shined them up, kept the grit, Checker Bar owner Timothy Tharp said. We still get people come in all the time and say oh my God, my grandpa had a cheeseburger with me right over there in that booth. So its a pretty special spot.
Previous report: Fire forces Detroit's beloved Checker Bar to close ahead of NFC playoffs Fire forces Detroit's beloved Checker Bar to close ahead of NFC playoffs
The restoration includes a new look for the second floor, which now has billiards and darts.
The Detroit Police Department is investigating two shootings that happened on the city's west side on Sunday morning. At this time, it doesn't appear that the shootings are related.
Here are details about the two shootings, listed in chronological order:
3:07 a.m.
One man is dead after police say he was shot in the early morning hours on Detroit's west side.
Police found the body of a man in the 7100 block of West Warren; this shooting is being investigated as a homicide, with DPD telling us the suspect is unknown.
9 a.m.
A child was taken to the hospital after accidentally shooting themselves in a home on Detroit's west side.
Police responded to a home in the 8800 block of Artesian around 9 a.m. this morning. We're told that the child found the gun and discharged it.
We're told that the child is in stable condition and that DPD is investigating what led up to the incident.
Two people were killed and two others were injured after a shooting at a funeral repast on Detroits east side Friday evening, according to police.
The shooting happened just before 8 p.m. in a parking lot near J5 Legacy Event Center on Sherwood Street near Lantz Street.
Watch police provide details in the video player below: Police provide details after fatal shooting on Detroit's east side
Police say a repast was happening at the event center when an argument occurred. One person pulled out a gun and fired multiple shots in the parking lot.
A woman in her 20s and a man in his 30s died, police say. Two other people were injured. Police are not releasing additional details about the victims at this time as they notify families.
"The families remain in our prayers right now as we can imagine what they're going through. But the Detroit Police Department will be here for them throughout their grieving process," said Capt. Marcus Thirkill with the department's homicide division.
Thirkill said the victims were attending the repast.
It's unclear at this time what led up to the altercation. Police are working to learn the motive.
"This was a tragic event for those who were attending this event, and unfortunately, someone chose to choose gun violence to resolve a situation," Thirkill said.
Suspect information has not yet been released.
Police say about 100 people attended the event and are asking the public to come forward with information.
"We are aware that other individuals may have information that may help us to help us come to a resolution on the case," Thirkill said.
The Detroit police homicide division is investigating along with Michigan State Police, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Community Violence Intervention groups were out in the area to support police and the community.
"Our city has to realize you've got to watch this impulse violence, getting mad and settling your beef with a gun at a repast. This is too much," said Pastor Maurice Hardwick with the Live in Peace Movement.
Anyone with information is asked to contact DPD's homicide division, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or Detroit Rewards TV and can remain anonymous.
A metro Detroit woman is facing federal charges over an alleged multimillion-dollar fraud scheme involving supposed child modeling events.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, Chanise Coyne, 46, from New Boston is charged with seven counts of wire fraud and five counts of money laundering.
Watch the video report below: New Boston woman arrested in alleged $4.6 million child modeling scam
The feds allege that Coyne obtained more than $4.6 million from a family by claiming that the money would be used for advanced fees associated with the family's young daughter participating in modeling events across the country.
According to the indictment, Coyne generated false records that allegedly showed the supposed placement of that girl in modeling events and she also impersonated a third party.
Feds say that Coyne used the money for significant gambling expenditures, including multiple alleged money laundering transactions on the FanDuel online gambling platform.
Fraud schemes that prey on the emotional bonds of families are egregious. This defendant allegedly took advantage of a familys love for their daughter, stole their nest egg, and then gambled it away. We will pursue fraud schemes in all their forms, U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon said in a statement.
Other families in metro Detroit who say they are former customers claim it's not the first time Coyne has scammed people.
Tricia Furnari created the "Chanice Coyne Scam Victims" Facebook group in 2024 after her own experience with the photographer. She said the group had grown quiet in recent months until news of the federal charges broke.
"We had about 100 people in here but obviously after the news broke yesterday, I have 40 more people added and I have a lot of requests to be added," Furnari said.
Furnari said she first hired Coyne for Santa photos in 2023, and the session went well. She paid upfront and booked again in 2024. That is when the cancellations began.
"She was still really nice about it, we were all understanding, but when she canceled again and said Santa had monkeypox, that's when we all started to get suspicious of her," Furnari said.
Furnari said after she went public with the story and a local news reporter called Coyne, her money (about $400) was refunded. She created the Facebook group to keep people informed, and help others try to recoup their money.
When the indictment was unsealed, Furnari said the dollar amount of $4.6 million stopped her cold.
"I was floored. Read it to my husband, I couldn't believe $4.6 million," Furnari said.
Meagen Hudson says she was also scammed by Coyne. She first took baby photos with Coyne in 2019, which went well, so she booked Coyne again. But in 2023, she says cancellations began piling up and she couldn't get a refund, only promised "credits," which she was never able to book.
Hudson shared messages from Coyne, which cited reasons including kidney stones, COVID-19 and a near-heart attack. In total, Hudson said she lost $375.
"From there, it just started to be things were canceled all the time, and it was 'oh I'm in the hospital, oh my kid has hand, foot, and mouth (disease), oh it's raining,'" Hudson said.
Furnari said that while Coyne was canceling sessions, she was posting photos of herself on expensive and extravagant trips. Furnari was told the money came from gambling winnings on Fanduel.
"We were all told 'oh she won with FanDuel,' that's what we all knew," Furnari said.
Hudson said she hopes the federal case encourages others to come forward.
"I'm not surprised. I think karma got her, and I hope all these other people come out and talk and say hey it's not just this $4 million fraud, she's been scamming people out of money for years," Hudson said.
We attempted to reach both Coyne and her attorney but did not receive a response.
The Thunder Over Michigan Air Show returns to Willow Run Airport this summer with a special edition to celebrate Americas 250th birthday.
Organizers say the event will be bigger and bolder this year.
The U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demo Team will rip through the sky. Along with great viewing spots, there will be entertainment for all ages on the airport's grounds from open to close.
The air show runs July 17 to July 19.
Tickets are on sale at a discounted price and are expected to go up as the event gets closer. More information about the event can be found on thunderovermichigan.org.
A metro Detroit mom donated more than 100 crocheted yarn octopi to babies in the neonatal intensive care units at two hospitals on Thursday in an effort to keep them safe.
Joelle Haley, whose son was cared for at Childrens Hospital of Michigan NICU at DMC Hutzel Womens Hospital, says she learned from a nurse how octopus amigurumis can help babies grasp the tentacles of the yarn creatures instead of the NICU tubes and wires.
Joelle said she then posted a callout on Facebook, encouraging others in her hometown to do the same, and volunteers jumped on board.
"Over 100 people have helped and donated, and the last time I counted, there were 175 total donated. There are more on the way, and I have more at my home that I need to wash and sterilize still," said Haley.
On February 26, thanks to her efforts, she was able to donate the crocheted octopi to Childrens Hospital of Michigan NICU at DMC Hutzel Womens Hospital and Childrens Hospital of Michigans NICU.
In the NICU, our babies are surrounded by advanced technology and highly specialized care but healing also happens in the smallest, most human ways, said Dr. Jorge Lua, Medical Director of the Childrens Hospital of Michigan NICU at DMC Hutzel Womens Hospital, in a statement. These tiny crocheted octopi represents time, compassion and hope, and they are beautiful reminders that our community is wrapping our families in love during some of their most vulnerable moments. We are deeply grateful for this extraordinary generosity.
Login
