The Detroit Police Department announced on Sunday night that a “person of interest” has been taken into custody in connection with the October killing of Detroit synagogue president Samantha Woll. The police emphasized that further details about the individual are being withheld to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation, but assured that additional information would be released in the near future. This development comes a month after a person initially held in connection with Woll’s death was released without charges.
Samantha Woll, who served as the board president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, was discovered outside her home with multiple stab wounds on the early morning of October 21.
The investigation has been focused on treating Woll’s death as a result of a domestic dispute rather than an act of extremism, as indicated by a law enforcement source familiar with the case. Despite Woll’s prominent role in the Jewish community, Detroit Police Chief James E. White has stated that there is no evidence suggesting the killing was motivated by antisemitism.
The killing of Detroit synagogue president Samantha Woll had a profound impact on the Jewish community, especially as they were still grappling with the deadly October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel and the resulting violence.
Despite the ongoing investigation, Detroit Police Chief James E. White shared in October that they had several individuals of interest but did not provide further details. The police maintained their belief that the assailant acted alone.
At a wedding just hours before her tragic death, Woll appeared to be her usual positive and pleasant self, according to White, based on police interviews. There were no indications of discomfort or distress.
During a funeral service, family and friends remembered Woll for her kindness, generosity, and commitment to helping others. Woll’s younger sister, Monica Woll Rosen, described her as having a beautiful and pure soul, advocating for peace in the world, and fighting for everyone, regardless of their background. Woll held various responsibilities at the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, including serving as president of the board, contributing to the ritual committee, working on the building’s renovation and reopening, and leading fundraising efforts, as highlighted by Rabbi Ariana Silverman during the funeral.
