Two people have died following a brutal attack outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, police confirmed today. The suspect, who was shot by armed officers, is also believed to be dead.
Attack Unfolds on Jewish Holy Day
The horrific incident began around 9:30am on Middleton Road, when a man rammed a car into a crowd near the synagogue and proceeded to stab several people. The attack took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. At least four people were injured, three of whom remain in serious condition in hospital.
Members of the public reportedly shouted warnings to armed officers that the attacker was wearing a bomb vest. Video footage shows police confronting the suspect, who was shot multiple times after ignored warnings.
Police Declare ‘Plato’: National Terror Response Activated
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) declared “Plato,” the national code-word indicating a marauding terror attack. Armed officers responded swiftly, shooting the suspect at 9:38am. Due to suspicious items on the suspect’s person, including what appeared to be an explosive belt, bomb disposal experts were called to the scene and carried out a controlled explosion.
A witness described the attacker as moving “robotically” between victims, targeting Jewish people specifically. The suspect is believed to have acted alone and was prevented from entering the synagogue, thanks largely to the quick actions of a “hero” rabbi who barricaded the doors.
Community in Shock as Security Heightened Nationwide
The Jewish community in Manchester is left reeling. Rabbi Jonathan Romain called the event “every Jewish person’s worst nightmare,” emphasizing the gravity of an attack during such a sacred day.
Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig expressed solidarity, saying: “Manchester stands with our Jewish community at this darkest of moments and will come together as a city.” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who cut short a European summit to return and chair a Cobra meeting, vowed to boost security. Extra police resources are being deployed to synagogues across the UK to reassure communities.
Authorities and Officials Respond
- Greater Manchester Police thanked a brave synagogue security guard for helping to prevent a worse tragedy.
- Police Federation Chair Mike Peake praised officers’ “bravery” in confronting an extreme threat.
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called the attack “horrifying,” urging the public to follow emergency advice.
- King Charles and the Queen expressed being “deeply shocked and saddened” by the “horrific attack.”
Latest Updates
- Six Manchester hospitals, including Salford Royal and Oldham, have gone into lockdown amid heightened security.
- Counter-terror police and armed forces are searching nearby houses for further evidence.
- The police Casualty Bureau is open at 0800 056 0154 for concerned relatives and witnesses.
Greater Manchester Police urge anyone with information or footage of the incident not to share it publicly but to contact them directly to aid their ongoing investigation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Originally published on UKNIP