Detroit Synagogue President Found Stabbed to Death in Lafayette Park Neighborhood
Tragedy struck the city of Detroit on Saturday morning when the president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue, Samantha Woll, was found stabbed to death outside her home in the Lafayette Park neighborhood. The politically connected 40-year-old had previously worked for U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Attorney General Dana Nessel.
Authorities were alerted to the crime after discovering a body with multiple stab wounds in the 1300 block of Joliet Place. A trail of blood led to Woll’s residence, leading police to believe that the crime had taken place there. The motive behind the murder remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.
The news of Woll’s tragic demise sent shockwaves through the Detroit community, with many expressing their grief and disbelief. Attorney General Nessel released a statement expressing her sadness over the loss of a dear friend and colleague. She described Woll as a kind and driven individual who used her faith and activism to create a better world for everyone.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan also mourned Woll’s passing, calling her one of the city’s “great young leaders.” He had recently met with her at the dedication of the renovated synagogue, a project she led with pride and enthusiasm.
Woll had been serving as the president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue since 2022 and was actively involved in other local Jewish organizations. The synagogue’s rabbi released a statement expressing shock and sorrow over Woll’s unexpected death.
Though the FBI is assisting Detroit police in their investigation, no motive has been identified at this time. Police responded to a call about an unresponsive woman lying on the ground at approximately 6:30 a.m. and pronounced Woll dead at the scene.
As of Saturday afternoon, the police were still present in the upscale townhome district where Woll was killed. The area, designed by renowned architect Mies van der Rohe, was cordoned off with caution tape.
Woll had made significant contributions to the world of politics and community engagement throughout her career. She had worked on various campaigns and managed political operations for notable figures such as Attorney General Nessel and State Senator Stephanie Chang.
Friends and colleagues remember Woll as a positive and dedicated individual who brought happiness and joy to those around her. She played a pivotal role in reopening the downtown synagogue and was on the verge of embarking on a new job opportunity.
U.S. Rep. Slotkin praised Woll’s commitment to public service and described her as a beacon of light in the face of adversity. Slotkin fondly remembered Woll’s relentless desire to serve others and her infectious smile that seemed to be everywhere in the Detroit area.
Woll’s impact extended beyond the realm of politics, as she was recognized by The Detroit Jewish News as one of its “36 under 36” in 2017. The publication highlighted her efforts to bridge the gap between Muslims and Jews, citing her work as the co-chair of the American Jewish Committee’s ACCESS Detroit Young Leadership Program and founder of the Muslim-Jewish Forum of Detroit.
The loss of Samantha Woll is felt deeply within the Detroit community, leaving friends, colleagues, and the city at large in mourning. As investigations into her tragic death continue, the community seeks solace in the memory of an extraordinary individual who dedicated her life to building understanding and healing the world.