The man who carried out the deadly attack on a synagogue in Manchester called emergency services immediately afterward, declaring, “I have killed two Jews in the name of the Islamic State,” as he claimed responsibility for his actions.
The attack, which occurred on Yom Kippur at the Heaton Park Synagogue, involved a car ramming into worshippers followed by a stabbing spree. Two Jewish worshippers died and several others were injured. The assailant was later shot dead by armed police.
The attacker, Jihad al-Shamie, 35, was on police bail for a rape allegation at the time. Authorities quickly treated the incident as a terrorist attack, given his admission and the nature of the assault.
Investigators have found no strong evidence to link al-Shamie to any ISIS network; instead, security services believe he acted alone, possibly driven by extremist ideology.
Tragically, one of the victims, Adrian Daulby, died from gunfire that appears to have come from police as he tried to shield others behind the synagogue door. The other victim, Melvin Cravitz, was killed while trying to prevent the attacker’s entry. Another worshipper, Yoni Finlay, was also wounded by police gunfire and remains hospitalized, along with other victims.
Witnesses reported hearing the attacker shout, “This is what you’re going to get for killing our children,” apparently referencing the conflict in Gaza, as he attempted to force his way into the building.
Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson pledged a full, thorough investigation: “No stone is being left unturned.” Six people believed to be linked to al-Shamie have been arrested under terrorism laws; two have since been released, while four remain in custody.
Al-Shamie was born in Syria and migrated to the UK as a child, later becoming a British citizen. Neighbours say his behaviour changed drastically over the years: he became more religious, preached to local youth, and wore traditional robes.
Residents in the area expressed shock. Some recalled having previously reported concerning behaviour to authorities.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and national leaders condemned the attack as an act of antisemitic terrorism, promising increased security for Jewish communities across the UK.
