On the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur, tragedy struck in northern England as a synagogue in Manchester was targeted in a deadly assault. A car was driven into members of the community before the attacker lunged at people with a knife. Police arrived within minutes, shooting the suspect dead outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall.
How the Attack Unfolded
Greater Manchester Police said they received reports shortly after 9:30 a.m. of a vehicle ramming worshippers near the synagogue, followed by stabbings. Armed officers reached the scene within seven minutes and fatally shot the suspect, who was wearing what appeared to be an explosive vest. Authorities later confirmed the device was not viable.
Two worshippers died at the scene, while four others remain in hospital with serious injuries. Security guards and worshippers reportedly acted quickly, preventing the attacker from entering the synagogue and averting a larger tragedy.
Suspect and Arrests
Police believe they know the identity of the suspect but have not yet released it for security reasons. Two other individuals were arrested in connection with the incident. Witnesses described a terrifying scene as the attacker emerged from the car with a knife and began assaulting people before being shot by police.
Reactions
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the “vile attack,” vowing to step up security for Jewish communities:
“In the coming days, you will see the other Britain — the Britain of compassion, decency and love. We will stand with our Jewish community to show that they are safe and belong here.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres denounced the assault as “particularly heinous” given it occurred on Yom Kippur. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized the UK for not doing enough to curb antisemitism, while King Charles III and Queen Camilla said they were “deeply shocked and saddened.”
Current Situation
Authorities have confirmed the incident is being treated as terrorism. A security cordon remains in place around the synagogue, with fire and ambulance crews assisting on site. Four victims are still receiving hospital treatment, while the national counter-terrorism unit continues its investigation.
