Detroit police claim brutal stabbing murder of synagogue president is not a hate crime

Detroit police claimed Sunday there is no evidence suggesting the murder of a prominent synagogue leader is connected to anti-Semitism.

The lifeless body of 40-year-old Samantha Woll was discovered outside her home near downtown Detroit early Saturday morning with multiple stab wounds. A trail of blood near Woll's body led police back to her residence, where they believe the crime occurred.

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 attempted to quiet that speculation on Sunday.

"The investigation into the death of Ms. Woll remains ongoing. At this time, however, no evidence has surfaced suggesting that this crime was motivated by antisemitism," White said in a statement.

"DPD investigators are working with the FBI to forensically analyze all of the information obtained up to this point in an effort to ascertain the timeline that ultimately led to Ms. Woll's death," White's statement added, WJBK-TV reported. "I again ask the community to remain patient while our investigators and law enforcement partners continue their work. Everything that can be done to bring this matter to closure is being called into service."

White did not disclose how investigators came to their conclusion or what evidence points investigators away from a hate crime at this time.

According to WDIV-TV, police found an Israeli flag inside Woll's home that was not damaged, which could be why they believe the crime is unrelated to her Jewish faith.

The FBI and Michigan State Police are assisting the investigation.

Woll was a politically connected religious leader who served as the board president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue and previously worked as deputy district director for Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).

Approximately 1,000 mourners gathered to remember Woll at her funeral on Sunday. Those in attendance included Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel (D) and state Sen. Stephanie Chang (D), the Detroit Free Press reported.

Police are expected to provide an update about the investigation on Monday.

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