Gunman shot dead after ramming vehicle into Michigan synagogue

A gunman has been shot dead after ramming a truck into a synagogue in Michigan, in what American authorities have described as a deliberate attack on one of the country’s largest Jewish congregations.

The attack took place on Thursday afternoon at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township, around 25 miles north of Detroit, after the attacker drove a vehicle into the front of the building before opening fire.

He was confronted by an armed security guard who opened fire, neutralising the threat before any other casualties occurred, officials said. No other injuries were reported.

Footage from the scene showed smoke billowing from the roof of the building as dozens of police vehicles surrounded the synagogue.

Temple Israel, which has around 12,000 members, describes itself as the largest Reform synagogue in the United States.

The site also houses an early years education centre and a religious school for pupils from nursery through to sixth form.

Officers from multiple agencies across Oakland County were deployed to the site, alongside state police and FBI agents.

Michael Bouchard, the Oakland County Sheriff, told reporters: “At least one individual came to the temple, security saw him, engaged him in gunfire.” He added that law enforcement was working to establish whether the attacker had acted alone.

Bouchard said authorities had been preparing for weeks amid concerns that an attack on the site could occur, suggesting the swift security response was part of a pre-planned readiness operation.

The nearby Jewish Community Centre was designated as a reunion point for families.

Several local schools, including West Bloomfield High School and West Bloomfield Middle School, were placed in lockdown as a precaution.

The Jewish Federation of Detroit ordered all Jewish organisations in the area to adopt lockout protocol, urging residents to avoid the area.

The suspect has since been confirmed dead by officials.

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed personnel were at the scene, describing the incident as “the apparent vehicle ramming and active shooter situation.”

Michigan State Police said officers would be increasing patrols at other places of worship across the region.

The White House confirmed that President Donald Trump had been briefed on the attack.

Michigan’s Governor, Gretchen Whitmer, said: “Michigan’s Jewish community should be able to live and practise their faith in peace. Antisemitism and violence have no place in Michigan. Thank you to law enforcement for their swift action.”