MERION STATION, Pa (WPVI) — Jewish congregations across the region are increasing security measures following an attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, an incident the FBI is investigating as a targeted act of violence.
At Chabad of the Main Line, Rabbi Shraga Sherman said the attack hit especially close to home. His great-nephew was inside the Michigan synagogue when a suspect rammed a vehicle into the building and set it on fire on Thursday afternoon. More than 140 students, staff and security personnel were inside at the time.
“An event like this is horrific. It’s very unsettling,” Sherman said. He added that his relative was safe and doing OK. “It really tugs at you. You well up. You get very emotional.”
Authorities say the suspect died after a shootout with security guards. Jeffrey Lasday, senior chief of external affairs for the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, said the quick response prevented further tragedy.
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“It was that preparedness that prevented a much greater tragedy,” he said.
Security professionals echoed that sentiment.
Ed Devir, president of Protexia Detective and Security Agency, said the guard who confronted the suspect acted bravely.
“He was a heroic guard, and it’s guards like that we employ,” Devir said.
His agency provides security for about 20 local sites, including Chabad of the Main Line, and he said he received several calls for service after the attack.
“Everyone just wants to make sure we’re there. The synagogues are very well protected.”
Police departments across the Delaware Valley, including in Philadelphia and Mount Laurel, have increased patrols at synagogues and other houses of worship.
Mount Laurel Police Chief Timothy Hudnall said his department has been responding to many concerned calls.
“We hear you. We understand you’re upset and scared, and we’re going to do everything we can to make sure you feel comfortable and safe in the community that you live,” he said.
Lasday said the Jewish Federation helps congregations bolster their own security and noted his personal connection to Temple Israel, where he once lived nearby and worked closely with the synagogue.
“It’s a sad commentary that today we have to make our buildings not only warm, welcoming and vibrant but secure and safe,” he said.
Despite the threats and uncertainty, Sherman urged worshippers to remain steadfast.
“We don’t respond with fear. We don’t respond with darkness. We fight darkness with light. We fight fear with pride, and nothing will deter us,” he said.
Michigan officials said no one inside the synagogue suffered serious injuries, though a security guard and several officers were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Local law enforcement agencies say they will continue monitoring the situation and encourage residents to report anything suspicious.
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