A vehicle and stabbing attack outside Manchester’s Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue on Thursday killed two people and left three critically injured. Police believe the suspect was shot dead at the scene due to suspicious items, though confirmation is pending.
The attack occurred as the Jewish community observed Yom Kippur, the holiest day of their calendar.
Greater Manchester Police declared a “major incident” shortly after 9:30 a.m., activating a national terrorism-response protocol. Officers initially treated four victims for injuries from the car and knife attack. Witnesses said the suspect ignored police warnings before officers opened fire.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the act as “horrific” and boosted security at synagogues nationwide. He returned early from a European summit to chair an emergency security meeting.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla expressed they were “deeply shocked and saddened” by the attack. Israel’s embassy in the UK called the violence “abhorrent and deeply distressing” and urged protection for Jewish communities.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham praised the police response and recognized the Jewish community’s legitimate concerns.
The Community Security Trust confirmed it is coordinating with police and local communities. Manchester, home to over 28,000 Jews, has suffered terror attacks before, including the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing that killed 22 people.
