Investigators are looking for a motive in the death of a Detroit synagogue president who was found stabbed this weekend, the city’s police chief said.
The body of Samantha Woll, board president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, was found with multiple stab wounds in her home Saturday morning, the Detroit Police Department said in a statement. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Reporting authorities followed “a trail of blood that led officers to the victim’s residence,” where the crime is believed to have taken place, the Detroit Police Department said in a statement.
Police have not identified any suspects in the case and it remains unclear what led to the murder.
“Understandably, this crime leaves many questions unanswered,” said Detroit Police Chief James E. White. “This matter is under investigation and I ask that everyone remains patient as investigators carefully examine each aspect of the crime and the available evidence.”
“It is important that conclusions are not drawn until all available facts are reviewed,” White added.
The FBI is aware of the case and will “assist the Detroit Police Department as requested,” the agency said in a statement to CNN .
Michigan State Police have also been assigned to support local officers in the case, state governor Gretchen Whitmer announced. “Together, they will investigate this cruel crime and bring the perpetrator to justice,” she added.
“My heart breaks for her family, her friends, her synagogue and all those who were lucky enough to know her,” Whitmer said. “She was a source of light, a beacon in her community who worked hard to make Michigan a better place,” he continued.
Woll’s synagogue released a statement Saturday expressing shock at her death.
“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the unexpected passing of Samantha Woll, our board president,” the synagogue said. “May her memory be a blessing.”
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said he and Woll were celebrating together at the newly renovated synagogue just a few weeks ago.
“It was a project that she led with great pride and enthusiasm,” Duggan said. “This entire city joins his family and friends in mourning his tragic death.”
“She didn’t deserve this”
MoReno Tayor II, who worked with Woll on Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s 2022 re-election campaign, said her death was “a devastating loss.”
“Sam was a shining light,” he told CNN . “She lit up every room she walked into. She always had a huge smile. She always gave you a firm handshake and asked about you, wanted to know who you were.”
He remembered Woll as a kind soul who was always involved in her community and dedicated to giving back.
“She didn’t deserve this, and I really hope they find a solution as soon as possible and find who is responsible,” he expressed.
Taylor said she had known Woll for five years and thought of her as a little sister.
“It is very difficult to imagine that someone so genuine and so kind could suffer this kind of tragedy,” he added.
Attorney General Nessel also shared her condolences in a statement on Facebook, saying, “Sam was the kindest person I have ever met. She was motivated by her sincere love for her community, state and country.”
Woll had also previously worked with Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin.
The congresswoman said Woll “dedicated her short life to building understanding between religions, bringing light in the face of darkness.”
“My heart aches that we lost someone so dedicated to serving others in such a senseless act. I will miss her tireless desire to serve and her bright smile, seemingly throughout the Detroit area.”
Source: CNN Brasil

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