The Jewish community in Manchester is reeling after a deadly attack outside a synagogue on Yom Kippur, with police now confirming that one of the victims may have been accidentally shot by officers during the response.
The assault unfolded at around 9:30 a.m. BST on Thursday outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall. A man drove his car into worshippers gathered near the entrance, before exiting the vehicle armed with a knife and attempting to force his way inside. Witnesses described scenes of panic as worshippers tried to barricade doors to protect those inside. Armed officers arrived within minutes and fatally shot the suspect.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) later identified the attacker as 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent. Police confirmed he was not on any counter-terrorism watchlists and said searches of properties in nearby Prestwich are ongoing. Three others — two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s — have been arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences as part of the investigation.
Victims Named
Two worshippers were killed in the attack: Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both local residents. Tributes have described Daulby as a “devoted father and grandfather” and Cravitz as “a kind and generous neighbour.” Flowers and handwritten notes have been left outside the synagogue, with messages of solidarity from across the city.
In a statement, GMP Chief Constable Stephen Watson confirmed that forensic examinations show one of the deceased suffered a wound “consistent with a gunshot injury” at a time when only police officers were firing. Another injured person, who remains in hospital with non-life-threatening wounds, also “appears to have been struck by a police round.” Investigators have not yet determined whether gunfire was the direct cause of death. Watson described the situation as “a tragic and unforeseen consequence of urgently required action to bring this vicious attack to an end.”
Community Response
The attack, which coincided with the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, has deepened fears over antisemitism in Britain. Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis called it the “tragic result of an unrelenting wave of Jew hatred.” Local leaders have urged solidarity, noting the extraordinary security measures already in place at Jewish schools, synagogues, and community centres.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood visited Manchester on Friday to offer condolences. Mahmood announced increased police protection at Jewish sites nationwide and condemned protests that erupted in London hours after the attack, calling them “deeply insensitive” in the immediate aftermath of a terrorist incident.
Investigation Continues
Bomb disposal officers confirmed that what appeared to be an explosive vest worn by the suspect was in fact a non-viable device designed to spread fear. Counter-terrorism detectives are continuing to investigate the attacker’s background and possible links to extremist networks.
Authorities stressed that while the inquiry is ongoing, the courage of worshippers who blocked the synagogue doors prevented further bloodshed. As Manchester grieves, questions remain about how to balance rapid armed responses with the risks of tragic mistakes in moments of crisis.
