The Federal Bureau of Investigation said that the March 12 attack at Temple Israel was a Hezbollah-inspired act of terrorism aimed at Michigan’s Jewish community.
Detroit Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan delivered an update on the West Bloomfield Township attack on Monday (March 30).
“We assess this attack to be a Hizballah-inspired act of terrorism purposely targeting the Jewish community and the largest Jewish Temple in Michigan,” said Runyan.
Runyan said the agency reached that conclusion after reviewing hundreds of pieces of digital and forensic evidence and conducting more than 100 interviews with witnesses, family members, and associates.
Investigators also worked with foreign partners to gather additional intelligence.
Authorities said the suspect was motivated by the militant ideology of Hezbollah, which the FBI classifies as a foreign terrorist organization.
Officials said the suspect had consumed pro-Hezbollah content for months leading up to the attack, including speeches and media tied to the group’s leadership.
According to the FBI, the suspect’s planning intensified early in March.
Investigators said he searched for synagogues and Jewish community locations across Metro Detroit, including Temple Israel, and used phrases such as “largest gathering of Israelis in Michigan” and “Orthodox synagogues.”
The FBI said the suspect purchased an AR-style rifle, ammunition, and other equipment, and also acquired fireworks and dozens of water containers that were later filled with gasoline.
Authorities said he attempted to delete portions of his online activity, but investigators recovered the data.
Officials said the day before the attack on March 11, 2026, the suspect created a social media album titled “Vengeance” that included images and messages referencing Hezbollah figures and ideology.
On the morning of the attack, the suspect posted additional messages and traveled to Temple Israel, arriving shortly before 10 a.m., according to investigators.
Authorities said that shortly before the attack, the suspect sent messages and videos expressing his intent to carry out a mass shooting at what he described as the largest gathering of Israelis in Michigan.
At about 12:19 p.m., the suspect rammed a vehicle into the building and entered the structure, where he exchanged gunfire with security personnel.
Officials said the suspect also ignited materials inside the vehicle, causing a fire and filling part of the building with smoke.
No additional fatalities were reported beyond the attacker, authorities said.
Investigators said they found no evidence of co-conspirators and do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the community.
The FBI also said the suspect was not previously on its radar and was not listed on a federal terrorist watchlist prior to the attack.
Runyan said the FBI continues to support victims through an online assistance center and is working closely with local, state, and federal partners.
“Our hearts continue to be with the community as they heal from this attack,” Runyan said.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing.