A suspected terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue leaves 2 dead and multiple injured. Police confirm suspect shot dead during Yom Kippur.
Manchester Synagogue Attack: Two Dead, Several Injured
A suspected terror attack outside a synagogue in Manchester, UK, has left two people dead and several others injured. Armed police shot the attacker after he drove a car into pedestrians and stabbed people near the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that at least three people remain in serious condition following the attack, which happened around 9:30 AM on October 2.
Police Response and Suspect Shot Dead
Authorities said the suspect appeared to be carrying explosive devices and petrol. Bomb disposal teams were sent to the scene, though it is unclear if the explosives were used.
The suspect, described as a man in dark clothing with objects strapped to his waist, was shot dead by armed officers after they declared a “major incident” and activated Plato, the national emergency code for terror attacks.
Attack on Yom Kippur
The incident took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, when synagogues are especially busy. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the attack “horrific” and confirmed that additional police have been deployed to synagogues nationwide.
Mayor Andy Burnham said one of the victims appeared to be a security guard who was stabbed while trying to protect the community.
Witness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud crash before the attacker began stabbing people outside the synagogue.
Local resident Chava Lewin said:
“The second he got out of the car, he started stabbing anyone near him. He tried to break into the synagogue, but someone managed to barricade the door.”
Shocked residents also reported seeing two men taken away in handcuffs nearby, though police have not confirmed their involvement.
Community Reaction
Videos shared online show police pointing guns at a suspect lying on the ground before shots were fired. Images also revealed victims injured outside the synagogue gates.
The Israeli embassy in London released a statement calling the attack “abhorrent and deeply distressing,” especially as it took place during a sacred day of prayer.
Ongoing Investigation
Police remain at the scene with heavy security, and roads around the synagogue are closed. Officials continue to investigate whether the attacker acted alone or had accomplices.
This tragic incident has left the Manchester community in shock and raised fears of increased threats against places of worship across the UK.