Release of Suspect in Detroit Synagogue Leader's Murder Case, Lawyer Confirms
Suspect in killing of Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll released from custody, lawyer confirms Updates on the investigation into the tragic incident
The suspect's lawyer announced on Saturday that the individual who was arrested for the murder of Samantha Woll, the president of a synagogue in Detroit, last month, has been released. On Wednesday, Detroit Police Chief James E. White confirmed the arrest of a suspect but stated that the specific details of the ongoing investigation will not be disclosed at this moment, as mentioned in a statement on X.
Investigators are classifying her death as a result of a domestic dispute rather than extremism, as stated by a law enforcement source who is knowledgeable about the investigation.
However, the killing of Woll has deeply unsettled members of the Jewish community who are still dealing with the aftermath of the deadly October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent conflict. This war has fueled an increase in antisemitic incidents in the United States over the past month, following a previous surge last year.
Samantha Woll, president of the board at the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue poses for a photo in Detroit, October 13, 2022.
David Guralnick/AP
Authorities conducting countless interviews to determine a suspect and motive in Detroit synagogue leaders fatal stabbing
The suspect involved in Woll's murder remains unidentified by the police. It is uncertain what charges the suspect might potentially face.
Allison Kriger, the attorney representing the suspect, informed CNN on Saturday that her client has been released from custody by law enforcement. However, no information regarding the conditions of the release has been disclosed.
The Detroit Free Press reported that the suspect was released without any charges. According to Michigan state law, suspects cannot be held for more than 72 hours without a court hearing. CNN's attempts to gather information about the release were unanswered by the Detroit Police Department.
Woll, the board president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue in Detroit, was discovered with multiple stab wounds outside her residence at around 6:30 a.m. on October 21. This occurred approximately six hours after she returned home from a wedding, as stated by the police.
Upon receiving a 911 call regarding an unresponsive individual lying on the ground, officers traced a trail of blood from the victim's body to her home, which is believed to be the location where the crime occurred, according to the investigators.
White, despite her influential role in the Jewish community, has stated that there is no evidence indicating that the killing was driven by anti-Semitism. According to a law enforcement source, a sizeable Israeli flag was found undisturbed in Woll's apartment. During a press conference more than two weeks ago, White mentioned that the police had several individuals of interest but stopped short of labeling any one person as a suspect. Additionally, law enforcement officials stated their belief that the attacker acted alone.
"The confidentiality of the investigation will be maintained in order to preserve the integrity of the remaining crucial procedures... White stated on Wednesday that investigators will continue collaborating with the Wayne County Prosecutors Office until the investigation reaches its conclusion."
According to White, Woll was described as her usual self, cheerful and pleasant, during the wedding before her tragic death. This information is based on police interviews. "There is no indication that she experienced any form of discomfort or distress," White added.
At the funeral service, Woll was commended by her loved ones for her radiant smile, selfless nature, attentive ear, and unwavering dedication to fostering connections and advocating for social equality.
"Sam possessed an extraordinary, intimate bond with numerous individuals, regardless of their religious beliefs, ethnic background, or political ideology – all those things that typically create divisions among us," stated Rabbi Ariana Silverman. "Many perceive her as someone they shared a uniquely close and significant connection with, and every one of them is absolutely correct."
CNNs Josh Campbell, Eric Levenson and Artemis Moshtaghian contributed to this report.
