Explosives found in Israel Temple attacker's car in Michigan suggest long planning: Expert

WEST BLOOMFIELD, MICHIGAN: The discovery of explosive materials inside the vehicle used in the attack at Temple Israel synagogue in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan suggests the suspect may have spent significant time planning the incident, according to a former deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Andrew McCabe.

Authorities earlier confirmed that a suspect rammed a vehicle into the synagogue building, injuring a security guard before the situation ended with the attacker dead.

As investigators continued examining the vehicle involved in the attack, reports indicated that a large amount of explosives was discovered in the car.

The development has raised additional concerns about the scale of damage the suspect may have intended to cause.

Expert says explosives significantly change assessment

Speaking about the new details, McCabe told CNN on Thursday, March 12 that the presence of explosives dramatically shifts how investigators evaluate the incident.

“The presence of explosives changes this math equation significantly,” McCabe said during the interview.

According to him, explosive materials inside the vehicle point to a much higher level of preparation than a spontaneous act of violence.

“It shows a much higher degree of preparation and planning,” he explained, adding that assembling explosive devices often requires knowledge or training.

Investigators have not yet revealed the exact type of explosives discovered in the vehicle.

McCabe noted that such materials could range from relatively simple improvised explosive devices to more sophisticated materials typically seen in conflict zones.

McCabe does not rule out 'training or assistance'

McCabe added that the discovery of explosives could lead investigators to examine whether the suspect had assistance or prior training.

“Just having explosive devices or explosive material shows us this person spent a lot of time planning and preparing,” he said.

He also suggested that authorities will likely examine how the suspect obtained the materials and whether anyone else may have been involved.

Investigators could explore several possibilities, including whether the suspect had help acquiring the explosives or had prior experience assembling such devices.

The presence of explosives has also heightened concerns among security experts about the motive behind the attack.

McCabe said the emerging details make the incident appear less like an impulsive act of violence.

“This looks less and less like just a rash, violent act,” he said.

Instead, he suggested the circumstances could draw close scrutiny from investigators as authorities attempt to understand the suspect’s motivations and whether the attack was part of a broader plan.