This week in Manchester, a deadly terrorist attack occurred at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in the Crumpsall area. On Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year, Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent, drove a car into pedestrians outside the synagogue, stabbed some individuals, and attempted to force his way into the synagogue. Two Jewish men, Melvin Cravitz (66) and Adrian Daulby (53), died in the attack, with Daulby accidentally shot by police during the defense of the synagogue. Three other men were seriously injured. The attacker, who wore a fake explosives belt, was shot and killed by police. Six people were arrested on suspicion of terrorism offenses in connection to the event. In response to the attack, there has been a heightened police presence in Manchester with Greater Manchester Police officers working extended shifts and other forces providing support. The attack sparked concerns around public safety during upcoming events, including the Conservative Party Conference and protests in the city. Police investigations and questioning of suspects are ongoing, focusing on whether the attacker acted alone and his potential extremist Islamist ideology influence. The incident has deeply shocked the local and national community, with counter-terrorism units actively involved.
