A Michigan synagogue that was attacked this week had recently strengthened its security by hiring a veteran police lieutenant as security director and conducting active shooter training. When an armed man drove his car into the building and opened fire, an armed private security guard returned fire. Inside, 140 children were attending an early childhood program, and none were injured. The attacker later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after his vehicle caught fire.

Community leaders credited the synagogue’s preparation with preventing a mass casualty event. A United States Senator and the governor of Michigan praised the security team for acting quickly and decisively. A rabbi at the synagogue said it was a miracle no one was hurt and noted that Jewish communities must plan for such threats.

The synagogue had hired a former police lieutenant with decades of law enforcement experience to lead its security team and had recently held prevention and preparedness training led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The attack comes amid heightened security measures at houses of worship in response to rising antisemitism and previous deadly assaults, prompting nearby churches and faith leaders to remain on alert.