Two people have died following a terror attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, police have confirmed.
### Incident Overview
Greater Manchester Police were called to an incident on Middleton Road at 9:31 am on Thursday. Armed officers responded swiftly and shot the attacker dead at the scene. Tragically, two members of the public lost their lives, and four more are currently in a serious condition in hospital.
In a statement released this afternoon, police confirmed that the incident is being treated as a terror attack. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the investigation.
### Government Response
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer returned early from a European summit in Copenhagen to chair a COBRA meeting on the attack. He described the events as “absolutely shocking,” especially as they occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, Head of Counter Terror Policing, confirmed that the attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue is being treated as a terrorist incident.
### Details of the Attack
The attacker reportedly drove a car directly into members of the public outside the synagogue. After exiting the vehicle, he proceeded to stab several individuals. The suspect was seen wearing a vest resembling an explosive device, prompting the deployment of a bomb squad.
Armed officers intercepted the attacker within seven minutes of the first emergency call and fatally shot him. The attacker was prevented from entering the synagogue, thanks to the quick actions of security staff and worshippers.
### Victims and Injuries
– Two members of the Jewish community have died as a result of the attack.
– Four others are hospitalized with serious injuries.
– Among the injured was a security guard who reportedly played a key role in preventing a worse outcome.
### Arrests and Investigation
Two additional people have been arrested in connection with the incident. Police are conducting urgent inquiries, including searches of nearby properties. A heavy police presence remains in the area as the investigation continues.
### Community and Official Reactions
– **Jewish Representative Council (JRC) of Greater Manchester** described the attack as “the culmination of two years of constant Jew hatred” linked to tensions surrounding the Gaza conflict.
– **Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham**, said the immediate danger is over and praised the security measures that helped prevent further casualties.
– **Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood** visited Greater Manchester Police HQ, expressing “steadfast support” for the Jewish community and pledging all necessary resources to ensure their safety.
– Both **Manchester football clubs**—Manchester United and Manchester City—released statements paying tribute to the victims and offering support.
– The **Prince and Princess of Wales** issued a message expressing their shock and sympathy.
### Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses described the attacker as moving “robotically” and targeting individuals wearing religious attire. The synagogue’s rabbi, Danni Walker, was hailed as a hero for barricading the doors to prevent the attacker from entering the building.
### Security Measures and Public Advice
– Police forces across the UK are stepping up patrols at synagogues and other Jewish sites to reassure communities and protect them from potential threats.
– Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
– Members of the public are asked to refrain from sharing disturbing images or videos of the incident on social media but to share any relevant footage directly with the police to assist the investigation.
### Hospitals and Local Impact
Several hospitals in Manchester, including Salford Royal and Oldham Hospital, were put on lockdown following the attack. Some schools in the surrounding area were also placed under lockdown as a precaution.
### Suspect and Motive
The identity of the attacker is believed to be known to police but has not yet been publicly disclosed for safety reasons. No definitive motive has been confirmed, and it is “too early” to determine it. The attacker’s suicide vest may have been genuine, according to security experts, though this remains unconfirmed.
### Responses from Community Groups
– The **British Muslim Trust** condemned the attack as “utterly abhorrent” and called for solidarity among communities.
– Raphi Bloom, co-chairman of North West Friends of Israel, criticized what he described as a “tsunami of Jew hatred” since October 7 amid the Gaza conflict.
### Ongoing Investigation
Counter-terror police from across the UK are assisting Greater Manchester Police. A controlled explosion was conducted at the scene as a precaution while specialist teams continue to assess suspicious items found on the attacker.
Members of the Armed Forces and bomb disposal experts have been deployed to assist with the investigation.
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### How the Attack Unfolded
– At 9:31 am, a car was driven into a crowd outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue.
– The driver exited the vehicle and stabbed several people outside the synagogue.
– Armed officers arrived at 9:37 am, shot the attacker at 9:38 am, and engaged in follow-up actions until the threat was neutralized.
– Emergency services attended to the injured immediately.
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### Messages of Support
The Prime Minister emphasized that additional police resources are being deployed nationwide to protect Jewish communities. Local authorities and emergency responders continue to offer full support and reassurance.
Anyone concerned about family or friends involved in the incident is urged to contact the Casualty Bureau at 0800 056 0154 or submit information online.
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### Conclusion
This tragic attack has sent shockwaves through Manchester and the UK’s Jewish community, especially as it occurred on Yom Kippur. The swift action of police officers, security personnel, and members of the community prevented further loss of life. Investigations remain ongoing as authorities work to fully understand the circumstances and prevent any further incidents.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all affected by this horrific event.
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*For updates, stay tuned to official Greater Manchester Police channels and government releases.*
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