Two people have died today following an attack at a synagogue in Manchester, prompting concerns over antisemitism in Britain. The attack happened outside the Heaton Park synagogue in Crumpsall on the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, leaving four others in serious condition. Police shot the suspect dead on the scene, but were unable to get near his body for hours due to a suspicious item on his person.
Officers responded to reports of a car driving towards the public and a man stabbed at 9.31am today, arriving just seven minutes later. Greater Manchester Police said worshippers in the synagogue and security staff showed “immediate bravery” and helped prevent the attacker from entering the building.
So what do you think? Vote in our poll and join the debate in the comments section. Can’t see the poll below? Click here.
Police initiated Operation Plato – the code used when responding to a “marauding terror attack” – following the fatal stabbings. They cordoned off the area as fire and ambulance crews arrived on scene.
Assistant Commissioner Laurance Taylor said two arrests have been made so far.
Sir Keir Starmer returned from Denmark to the UK to chair a COBRA meeting following the incident, which he called “absolutely shocking”.
He said: “The attack in Manchester this morning is absolutely shocking, and all of our thoughts are with those affected. I am on my way back to London. When I arrive, I will chair an emergency Cobra meeting.
“I’m already able to say that additional police assets are being deployed to synagogues across the country, and we will do everything to keep our Jewish community safe.
“I’ve spoken to Mark Gardner of the CST [Community Security Trust], and Andy Burnham, the mayor of Manchester. I want to thank the emergency services for the speed of their response.”
