Car-Ramming and Stabbing Attack Near Manchester Synagogue Deemed ‘Terrorist Incident’
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LONDON – At least two people were killed and several injured in a car-ramming and stabbing outside a synagogue in northern England on a Jewish holiday Thursday, an attack police called a “terrorist incident.”
The attack occurred as Jewish community members were gathering at Manchester’s Heaton Park Hebrew congregation synagogue for Yom Kippur, Judaism’s holiest day.
Greater Manchester Police officers shot and killed a suspected attacker and arrested three suspects in connection with the incident.
Later Thursday, the police identified the man they believed was responsible for the attack: Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent. The police said there was no record of the man in a U.K. counterterrorism program that works to prevent people from being drawn into extremist crime.
“We are working to understand the motivation behind the attack as the investigation continues,” a police statement said.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack “appalling” and “all the more horrific” for taking place on a Jewish holiday.
Yom Kippur, known as the Day of Atonement, is a holiday when Jews engage in fasting, prayer and reflection, beginning at sundown Wednesday.
It was around the time of the holiday’s Thursday morning service when an attacker drove his car into people outside the synagogue in Crumpsall,a largely residential area about 3 miles from manchester’s city center.
“The driver of the car was seen then to attack people with a knife,” Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Stephen Watson said in a statement. “Following a rapid response, armed officers from Greater Manchester Police intercepted the offender and he was fatally shot by officers within 7 minutes of the original call.”
Passersby recorded videos of the aftermath,showing a chaotic scene with police cars and ambulances surrounding the synagogue.
Manchester Bomb Squad Incident: Suspect Dead After Yom Kippur Response
London, October 2, 2025 – A suspect is dead following an incident in Manchester, England, today, prompting a significant security response, particularly focused on protecting Jewish communities during Yom Kippur. Initial reports indicated the suspect was shot by police after raising concerns due to “suspicious items” on his person.
Incident Details & Police Response
Manchester police responded to a situation where a male suspect was shot. Early in the response, authorities were unable to confirm if the suspect had been killed, citing concerns about potentially dangerous items he was carrying. A bomb disposal unit was deployed, and a controlled explosion was carried out in the area as a precaution. Police later confirmed the suspect’s death and stated there was no further risk to the public.
A photograph circulating on local television, including the BBC, purportedly shows the suspect. The image, appearing to be a security camera screenshot, depicts a figure wearing what seems to be a package strapped around his waist. Though, NPR has not independently verified the authenticity of the photo, and police have not yet released the suspect’s name or any further details. Authorities have established an online portal for the public to submit information related to the incident or the suspect: https://www.gmp.police.uk/ (This link directs to the Greater Manchester Police website).
Government Reaction & Increased Security
The incident occurred while Prime Minister Keir Starmer was attending a European summit in Denmark. he issued a statement expressing his dismay, emphasizing the heightened sensitivity of the attack occurring on Yom Kippur, stating it was “all the more horrific.” Starmer immediately cut short his trip and returned to the UK to chair an emergency meeting of his cabinet and advisors.
In response to the incident, police have increased security measures around synagogues across the country. Buckingham Palace also released a statement, with King Charles and Queen Camilla expressing thier “deeply shocked and saddened” sentiments and acknowledging the swift response of the police.
Yom Kippur & Security Concerns
Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism, concludes this evening. The timing of this incident has understandably heightened anxieties within the Jewish community and prompted increased vigilance. The Community Security Trust (CST), a charity providing security advice and assistance to the Jewish community in the UK, has issued guidance to synagogues and community centers, urging heightened awareness and security protocols.https://www.cst.org.uk/ (This link directs to the Community Security Trust website).
Key Takeaways:
* A suspect was shot and killed by Manchester police after raising security concerns.
* The incident occurred on Yom Kippur, prompting increased security measures at synagogues nationwide.
* Prime minister Keir Starmer has returned to the UK to lead an emergency response.
* Authorities are seeking public assistance with information related to the incident.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of all communities, particularly during this sensitive time.