The investigation into the killing of Samantha Woll, the president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue in Detroit, is currently ongoing, according to Detroit Police Department Chief James E. White. Woll was found dead with stab wounds outside her home on Saturday morning. Chief White stated that there is currently no evidence suggesting that the crime was motivated by antisemitism. The motive behind the killing is still under investigation.
Samantha Woll was an active Democrat and had worked as an aide to Rep. Elissa Slotkin, a political director for Attorney General Dana Nessel, and a campaign manager for various candidates. The Detroit Police Department is collaborating with the FBI to analyze collected information and establish a timeline of events leading to Woll’s death.
Chief White has announced that the Detroit Police will provide a media update on the investigation on Monday. The death of Samantha Woll occurred amidst concerns about increased threats of violence towards Jewish Americans during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The FBI has reported an increase in threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities and institutions during this period.
The Michigan chapter of the Anti-Defamation League expressed shock and sadness over Woll’s death and urged the community to refrain from speculation, allowing law enforcement to gather facts. Funeral arrangements for Samantha Woll have been made, while the investigation into her killing continues.
