A Detroit synagogue president was found stabbed to death outside her home in the city’s downtown Saturday morning.
Samantha Woll, 40, has been the leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue since 2022 and previously worked for several Democratic politicians, including Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin.
According to the Detroit Free Press, Woll’s body was discovered after a trail of blood led to her home, where she was found with multiple stab wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police say they are still investigating the crime and that neither motive nor cause of death have been officially released. It remains unclear whether the murder has any connection to the unrest in the Middle East.
No arrests have been made and anyone with information is asked to call the Detroit Police Department Homicide Unit at (313) 596-2260.
Samantha Woll, 40, was found stabbed to death outside her home on Saturday morning
The Jewish leader’s body was discovered outside her home after police followed a trail of blood to her property
Tributes quickly poured in for the religious leader known for her work building bridges between the Jewish and Muslim communities, while her synagogue expressed shock at her sudden “unexpected” death.
“We have no further information at this time, but will share more as it becomes available,” her synagogue said.
“May her memory be a blessing.”
In June, Woll was named to the Detroit Jewish News’ 2017 “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 of both faiths who meet in partnership to learn, celebrate and build community,” the glowing profile reads.
She was praised for helping to build and deepen “important relationships” between local Jewish and Muslim communities, where she hosted “revolutionary events, including an interfaith Iftar dinner welcoming Syrian refugees.”
“By reaching out and creating space for connection between Muslims and Jews, she exemplified the values of healing the world.”
In a statement following the Jewish leaders’ deaths, Attorney General Dana Nessel, for whom Woll also worked in her re-election campaign, said Woll had been murdered.
“I am shocked, saddened and horrified to learn of Sam’s brutal murder,” said Nessel, for whom Woll also worked in her re-election campaign.
“Sam was the kindest person I have ever known.” She was driven by her genuine love for her community, her state and her country. Sam has truly used her faith and commitment to create a better place for everyone.”
Woll had served as leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue since 2022 and was also known for her work with several Democratic politicians
I am shocked, saddened and horrified to learn of Sam’s brutal murder. Sam was the kindest person I have ever known. She was driven by her sincere love for her community, her state and her country. Sam has truly used her faith and commitment to create a better place for everyone. pic.twitter.com/gIYRP4USaj
– Dana Nessel (@dananessel) October 21, 2023
I and the entire Slotkin team are heartbroken by this news. Sam worked for me almost from the moment I became a congressman, helping us set up the office and helping me run it throughout my first term. https://t.co/BisT7N6cAa
– Rep. Elissa Slotkin (@RepSlotkin) October 21, 2023
Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin praised Woll as one of the leaders who led her office in her first full term in Washington.
“She did for our team as deputy district director what came so naturally to her: helping others and serving constituents,” she said on X.
“Regardless, in politics and in the Jewish community, she dedicated her short life to building understanding between faiths and bringing light to the face of darkness.”
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said he was devastated to “learn of the loss of one of Detroit’s great young leaders.”
“A few weeks ago I experienced a day full of joy with Sam at the inauguration of the newly renovated downtown synagogue. “It was a project that she successfully led with great pride and enthusiasm,” he said in a statement.
“Sam’s loss has left a huge void in the Detroit community. The entire city joins her family and friends in mourning her tragic death.”
Jewish state Rep. Noah Arbit described Woll as the “kindest, most beautiful soul” as he paid his respects.
“I’m shattered and broken and unable to move.” “There are no words,” he said.
“The kindest and most beautiful soul, captured in the most evil and brutal way.” Sam was committed to justice and equality. In their name we will never give up. Baruch Dayan Emet, Sam. You were so loved and appreciated.’