Manchester is on edge after a violent attack at Heaton Park Synagogue left two dead and several injured. The city’s hospitals have been placed on lockdown amid fears of further threats.
Chaos Outside Synagogue on Yom Kippur
At just after 9.30am, emergency services responded to reports of horror at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue. Witnesses said a car rammed into a crowd before a man went on a stabbing rampage. Armed police shot the suspected attacker at the scene.
Police believe the knifeman is dead, but are treating suspicious items found on him with extreme caution. Three members of the public remain in serious condition following the brutal assault.
Hospitals Locked Down as Major Incident Declared
The Northern Care Alliance NHS Trust confirmed all its hospitals — including Salford Royal, Fairfield General, Rochdale Infirmary, and Royal Oldham — went into immediate lockdown after the attack was declared a major incident at 9.37am. The PLATO protocol, reserved for suspected marauding terrorist attacks, was also activated.
An internal note revealed staff were briefed about the emergency with security tightened across the city’s biggest medical centres. Nearby hospitals remain on high alert as investigations continue.
Government Reacts: PM Cuts Denmark Trip Short for Cobra Meeting
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is cutting short a trip to Denmark to lead a Cobra meeting — the government’s top-level emergency response committee. He condemned the attack, calling it “horrific,” especially as it took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
“My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all first responders.”
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham confirmed the suspect’s death and reassured the public that the incident is contained, though the scene remains active. He urged people to avoid the area.
Onlookers Fear Suspect Had Bomb
Video from the scene captured terrified bystanders shouting that the suspect “has got a bomb” and appeared to be trying to detonate it. Moments later, armed officers shot him to prevent further carnage. A bomb disposal team is now on site investigating suspicious items.
What We Know So Far
- Two people killed, including victims hit by a car and stabbed
- Suspected attacker shot by police at 9.38am; believed dead but unconfirmed
- Four people injured in total, three seriously
- PLATO major incident declared by Greater Manchester Police at 9.37am
- Hospitals across Manchester on immediate lockdown
- Bomb disposal unit deployed amid fears suspect carried explosives
What Is a Cobra Meeting?
Cobra meetings are top-tier government crisis sessions, bringing together ministers, security, intelligence, and emergency chiefs to coordinate rapid responses to national emergencies. Prime Minister Keir Starmer will chair today’s meeting, held in the Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms.
Public Advised: Stay Clear and Share Info Responsibly
Police ask anyone with images or footage to send them directly to authorities rather than circulate on social media. Those worried about loved ones should contact the Casualty Bureau.
Authorities remain in close contact with synagogues across Greater Manchester, boosting security and offering reassurance in the wake of this deadly attack.
Originally published on UKNIP