by supgv
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The Virginia Center for Public Safety condemns the act of targeted violence carried out today on the campus of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. The shooting in an Army ROTC classroom – under investigation as an act of terrorism – claimed the life of Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, dedicated head of ODU’s Army ROTC program, and resulted in at least two other injuries. We commend the courage of the ROTC cadets who acted bravely to subdue and neutralize the gunman. Their selflessness undoubtedly prevented further loss of life. We extend our deepest condolences to Lt. Col. Shah’s family, colleagues, and the entire ODU community.
We also condemn the attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, where an armed man rammed his vehicle through the synagogue’s entrance and exchanged gunfire with security personnel before being killed. We are grateful that the synagogue’s security team acted swiftly to prevent further bloodshed.
No one should have to fear for their lives in places of worship or on a college campus. Reports of these incidents are a painful reminder that gun violence and targeted terrorism are threats that demand our collective attention. The Virginia Center for Public Safety calls on lawmakers at all levels of government to implement evidence-informed policies that keep firearms out of the hands of those who intend to perpetrate violence. We must invest in proven prevention strategies that protect our communities before gun violence strikes.
MICHIGAN:
March 12, 2026 – An armed individual attacked Temple Israel, one of the country’s largest reform synagogues, in West Bloomfield MI. The suspect, identified as Ayman Mohamd Ghazali, breached the Temple’s facility by driving in through the doors before engaging in gunfire by the security facility. He was found dead in the vehicle. All synagogue staff, teachers, and 140 students at the temple’s Early Childhood Center were marked safe.
The following statement can be attributed to the Board Chair of End Gun Violence Michigan, Episcopal Bishop of Michigan, Rt. Rev. Bonnie A. Perry:
We stand in solidarity with our neighbors and friends at Temple Israel and the wider Jewish community in metro-Detroit. We are with you. No community should have to suffer the pain, panic, and fear you have endured today. Houses of worship and our schools should be sanctuaries, not targets. In Michigan, this is the third such attack in less than a year.
We know the painful history our Jewish friends have endured. We pledge to work with the interfaith community to strive for healing, restoration and peace. As gun violence prevention advocates, we will continue the work to ensure that those who desire to harm you will be denied the means to fulfill that terrible wish.
MINNESOTA:
Jan 24, 2026 – The continued use of deadly force by immigration authorities in our neighborhoods is unacceptable. These actions endanger lives, escalate fear and undermine public safety, especially when communities are clearly demanding accountability through peaceful protest.
Read their full statement here.
Jan 8, 2026 – The shooting was wrong. Renee [Good] should not have died at the hands of ICE. As details continue to emerge, we urge a thorough, transparent investigation that honors the truth and brings accountability. We also call on all leaders – at every level – to confront the epidemic of gun violence with courage, compassion and meaningful action.
Read their full statement here.
