Two people were killed and three others injured in a violent attack outside a synagogue in Manchester, England, on Thursday as Jewish communities worldwide observed Yom Kippur. Authorities confirmed the suspect involved in the incident was deceased.
The assault occurred at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, a neighborhood with a significant Jewish population. Police were called to the scene at 9:31 a.m. local time after reports of a car ramming pedestrians and a man stabbing individuals. A witness described seeing “a car being driven towards members of the public” before the suspect was shot by officers.
Greater Manchester Police stated the attacker “believed to be deceased” was confirmed dead at the scene following initial uncertainty due to “suspicious items” on his body. The force noted that a quick-thinking congregation member prevented the suspect from entering the synagogue, potentially averting further casualties. Three individuals remain in serious condition.
The incident has sparked immediate concern among local and national authorities as investigations continue into the motive behind the attack.