Two people were killed and three others critically injured in a violent attack at a synagogue in northern England on Thursday, police said. The assault took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, as worshippers gathered for prayers.Greater Manchester Police confirmed the suspect was shot by armed officers, though his death has not been officially confirmed amid concerns he may have been carrying explosives. A bomb disposal unit was deployed to the scene as a precaution.
The attack occurred at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall shortly after 9:30 a.m. A witness reported seeing a car driving at pedestrians outside the synagogue, followed by a stabbing.
Within minutes, armed police responded, opening fire on the suspect. “One man has been shot, believed to be the offender,” Greater Manchester Police said in a statement.Authorities initially reported four victims with injuries from both the vehicle and the knife attack. The toll was later revised to five, with three suffering serious wounds.
The attack occurred at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall shortly after 9:30 a.m. A witness reported seeing a car driving at pedestrians outside the synagogue, followed by a stabbing.
Within minutes, armed police responded, opening fire on the suspect. “One man has been shot, believed to be the offender,” Greater Manchester Police said in a statement.Authorities initially reported four victims with injuries from both the vehicle and the knife attack. The toll was later revised to five, with three suffering serious wounds.
The investigation remains active, with police working to confirm the suspect’s identity, motive, and whether he acted alone. Security around synagogues in the region has since been tightened.
