Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson revealed fresh details on the horrific synagogue attack. Full post-mortem exams are due later today.
Sir Stephen said: “The Home Office Pathologist has provisionally found one victim suffered a wound consistent with a gunshot.”
Crucially, the suspect, Jihad Al-Shamie, is believed not to have had a firearm. “The only shots fired were from GMP’s Authorised Firearms Officers,” said Sir Stephen. The officers acted swiftly to stop Al-Shamie from entering the synagogue and causing more devastation.
Tragic Injury or Collateral Damage?
“This injury may sadly be a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the urgent police action to end this vicious attack,” Sir Stephen explained.
Doctors confirm one of the three victims in hospital also has a gunshot wound, but fortunately, it is not life-threatening.
Both victims were reportedly close behind the synagogue door, where brave worshippers blocked the attacker’s entrance.
Suspect’s Family Slam Attack, Call for Privacy
The suspect’s family has issued a firm condemnation. A statement reported by Reuters said:
“The news from Manchester regarding the terrorist attack targeting a Jewish synagogue has been a profound shock to us.”
“The Al-Shamie family in the UK and abroad strongly condemns this heinous act, which targeted peaceful, innocent civilians.”
“We fully distance ourselves from this attack and express our deep shock and sorrow over what has happened.”
“Our hearts and thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we pray for their strength and comfort.”
“We ask the media to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time and refrain from using this tragic event in any context that does not reflect the truth.”
“We pray for the swift recovery of the injured victims.”
The statement is signed by Faraj Al-Shamie on behalf of “The Al-Shamie Family UK and Abroad.”
The nation remains united in shock and reflection after yet another violent attack targeting the Jewish community.
Originally published on UKNIP