Church of Jesus Christ issues statement following Michigan Synagogue attack

In response to Thursday’s attack at Temple Israel synagogue in West Bloomfield, Michigan, the United States Northeast Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement expressing solidarity with all people of faith who face violence because of their beliefs.

The statement came hours after a suspect drove a vehicle into the synagogue, breaching the building. Security officers fired at the individual, who was later found dead. Authorities reported that the vehicle contained a rifle and what appeared to be explosives. The FBI described the incident as a “targeted act of violence against the Jewish community.”

Temple Israel, located in a Detroit suburb, houses an early childcare center and school. In their statement, Elder Allen D. Haynie and his counselors, Elder Mathias Held and Elder Robert M. Daines, emphasized that houses of worship should remain sanctuaries of peace, prayer, and community, and offered prayers for healing and comfort for those affected.

The church also referenced a similar attack in nearby Grand Blanc in September 2025, when a man drove a truck into a Latter-day Saint meetinghouse, opened fire, and set the building on fire, killing four people before being stopped by law enforcement. The FBI later determined that attack was motivated by anti-religious beliefs against the Mormon community.

“Having witnessed the tragedy in Grand Blanc, we extend our love and support to all affected by today’s violence at Temple Israel,” the area presidency wrote.