- Samantha Woll, 40, was found dead outside her home in Detroit
A Detroit synagogue president was found stabbed to death outside her downtown home Saturday morning.
Samantha Woll, 40, has served as head of the Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue since 2022 and previously worked for Democratic politicians, including Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin.
According to the Detroit Free PressWoll’s body was discovered after a trail of blood led to her home, where she was found with multiple stab wounds and pronounced dead at the scene.
In a statement after the Jewish leaders’ deaths, Attorney General Dana Nessel said Woll had been killed.
“I am shocked, saddened and horrified to learn of Sam’s brutal murder,” said Nessel, for whom Woll had also worked during her re-election campaign.
“Sam was as kind as I’ve ever known. She was driven by her genuine love for her community, state and country. Sam has truly used her faith and activism to create a better place for everyone.”
Samantha Woll, 40, was stabbed to death outside her principal at the Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue since 2022.
Police say they are still investigating the crime, and neither a motive nor the cause of death have been officially released.
It remains unclear whether the murder has any connection with the unrest in the Middle East.
“At this time we do not have more information, but we will share more as it becomes available,” her synagogue said, calling her death “unexpected.”
“May her memory be a blessing.”
In June, Woll was named in the Detroit Jewish News“36 under 36” list, which described her as a “social justice and political activist.”
“She was instrumental in founding the Muslim-Jewish Forum of Detroit – a grassroots collective of young adults from both faiths who come together to learn, celebrate and build community together,” the beaming profile reads.
‘The Forum has helped build and deepen important relationships that previously did not exist between the young Jewish and Muslim communities, by organizing revolutionary events, including an interfaith Iftar dinner welcoming Syrian refugees.
“By reaching out and creating space for connection between Muslims and Jews, she has exemplified the values of healing the world.
“Sam also serves as co-chair of the American Jewish Committee’s ACCESS Detroit Young Leadership Program and is an active member of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue.”