Three Dead in Shocking Manchester Synagogue Attack on Yom Kippur
Deadly Stabbing and Car Attack Rocks Jewish Community
Tragedy struck today at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, on Yom Kippur – the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Police have confirmed two people were killed in a brutal stabbing and car-ramming attack.
A third man, believed to be the attacker, was shot dead by armed Greater Manchester Police officers. Authorities are treating the incident as a major investigation with bomb disposal teams still examining suspicious items on the suspect.
Chaos at the Scene: Bomb Squad and Armed Police Respond
Eyewitness video shows tense moments as armed police confront the suspect, who reportedly appeared to have a bomb strapped on him. Amid shouts warning he might “blow himself up,” gunfire erupted and the attacker fell to the ground.
A bomb disposal lorry soon arrived, entering the cordoned-off area, heightening fears of explosive devices. No explosives have been confirmed at this stage.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene treating four people injured by stabbing and vehicle impact. One victim is said to be a synagogue security guard who valiantly helped prevent further casualties.
Community and Leaders React: Shock and Condemnation
Members of Manchester’s Jewish community described feeling “shocked and terrified” after the attack, which took place just as worshippers were arriving to observe Yom Kippur fasting and prayers.
“It’s an extremely tolerant neighbourhood with Jews and Muslims living side by side,” said one local. “I can’t believe this happened here.”
Car Rams Crowd Outside Manchester Synagogue on Yom Kippur
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham confirmed the attacker is believed dead and praised the work of synagogue security for averting a worse catastrophe.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called the attack “horrifying” and urged the public to follow police advice.
Armed Police Swarm Synagogue After Stabbing Attack
Sir Keir Starmer, returning early from a Copenhagen EU meeting, called the incident “absolutely shocking” and announced an emergency COBRA meeting. Extra police are being deployed to synagogues across the UK to boost security.
What Is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, dedicated to fasting, prayer, and atonement. It comes after Rosh Hashanah, marking the Ten Days of Repentance. Observance lasts from sunset the evening before until nightfall of the day itself, often spent in synagogues.
One Dead in Manchester Terror Attack at Synagogue on Jewish holy day
Timeline of the Attack
9:31am: Police receive reports of stabbing and a car driven towards people outside the synagogue.
9:34am: Firearms officers deployed; reports of security guard attacked with knife.
9:37am: Police declare major incident.
9:38am: Police open fire, hitting suspect.
9:41am: Paramedics treat four victims.
Location and Ongoing Coverage
The Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue is on Middleton Road, Crumpsall — about three miles north of Manchester city centre. The area remains cordoned off as police continue their investigation.
Onlookers at the scene remain visibly shaken, with many comforted by police and emergency crews.
