Detroit police say the brutal stabbing murder of synagogue president was not a hate crime
Detroit police claimed Sunday there was no evidence that the killing of a prominent synagogue leader was linked to anti-Semitism.
The lifeless body of 40-year-old Samantha Woll was discovered early Saturday morning with multiple stab wounds outside her home near downtown Detroit. A trail of blood near Woll’s body led police back to her apartment, where they believe the crime took place.
The fact that a prominent synagogue leader was found brutally murdered amid increasing incidents of anti-Semitism led to speculation that Woll was targeted because of her faith. But Detroit Police Chief James White sought to dispel that speculation on Sunday.
“The investigation into Ms. Woll’s death is still ongoing. However, at this time, no evidence has emerged to suggest that this crime was motivated by anti-Semitism,” White said said in a statement.
“DPD investigators are working with the FBI to forensically analyze all information obtained up to this point to determine the timeline that ultimately led to Ms. Woll’s death,” White added in his statement to WJBK-TV reported. “I again ask the community to remain patient as our investigators and law enforcement partners continue their work. Everything that can be done to bring this matter to a conclusion will be put into action.”
White did not disclose how investigators reached their conclusion or what evidence prevented investigators from a hate crime at this time.
After to WDIV-TVPolice found an Israeli flag in Woll’s home that was not damaged, which may be why they believe the crime had nothing to do with her Jewish faith.
The FBI and Michigan State Police are assisting in the investigation.
Woll was a politically connected religious leader who served as board president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue and previously worked as deputy district director for Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).
About 1,000 mourners gathered to remember Woll at her funeral on Sunday. Those in attendance included Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel (D) and state Senator Stephanie Chang (D), according to the Detroit Free Press reported.
The police are expected to report on the current status of the investigation on Monday.
Police do not suspect anti-Semitism in Samantha Woll’s murderwww.youtube.com
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