Wayland Police Increase Presence Around Places Of Worship

WAYLAND, MA — Wayland officials have shared a statement regarding current events surrounding an attack on a Michigan synagogue.

The Wayland Police Department, along with other town officials, said it's aware of Thursday's attack on the large Detroit-area synagogue. The FBI is investigating the incident where a man rammed his car into the space, as a "targeted act of violence against the Jewish community," NBC News reported.

The Department of Homeland Security said the driver was Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, a 41-year-old U.S. citizen originally from Lebanon, according to NBC News.

"Incidents such as this are deeply concerning and have a profound impact not only on the immediate community affected, but also on Jewish communities and places of worship across the country. Acts of violence or threats directed toward individuals or institutions based on faith or identity are taken very seriously and have no place in our society," Wayland town officials wrote in a statement.

Wayland officials said that events can raise concerns among community members and that town officials remain committed to ensuring all residents are safe and supported.

Wayland police have increased their presence and patrols around the temples in the community since last week, WPD said.

The agency said there is no threat to any places of worship in the community, but the measures are "intended to enhance visibility, provide reassurance, and ensure the continued safety of our houses of worship and those who attend them."

The police department added that it will continue to monitor developments and maintain open communication with leaders.

"We remain committed to fostering an environment where the community feels safe, welcomed, and supported," the news release said. "We encourage residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the police department."

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