A violent assault outside a synagogue in Manchester has resulted in multiple casualties after a driver targeted a crowd on Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in Judaism.
The incident occurred on Thursday morning in the Crumpsall area, a neighborhood with a significant Jewish population. According to authorities, a man deliberately drove a car into people gathered outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue. He then exited the vehicle and began stabbing bystanders before being shot by responding police officers.
Two individuals were killed in the attack, and three others sustained serious injuries. The assailant was pronounced dead at the scene. Police declared a major incident and initiated a marauding terrorist attack protocol. Bomb disposal units were also dispatched due to suspicious items found on the suspect.
A large congregation was inside the synagogue at the time and was safely evacuated after the area was secured. Law enforcement officials praised a member of the public whose swift call to emergency services allowed for a rapid police response, which they said prevented the attacker from entering the building.
In response to the tragedy, a statement was issued expressing profound sadness and shock over the event, particularly given its occurrence on such a significant religious day. The message extended thoughts and prayers to all those affected by the appalling violence.
Police have assured continued contact with synagogues across Greater Manchester to provide reassurance to the community in the wake of the attack.
