UK

What we know about the synagogue attack in Manchester

What we know about the synagogue attack in Manchester

A man has been shot by police after an attack at a synagogue left two dead in Manchester.

The attack, which comes on the holiest day in the Jewish religious calendar – Yom Kippur – involved a car and a knife, according to Greater Manchester Police.

At least two other people are also believed to be injured.

Here’s everything we know so far.

How did the attack happen?

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player


0:35

Police respond to synagogue attack on Yom Kippur

Police received a call from a member of the public at 9.31am on Thursday morning, who said a man had been stabbed and a car has been driven towards members of the public at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall.

Police received further reports from the public in the minutes that followed, saying that a security guard had been attacked with a knife.

The synagogue is on Middleton Road in Crumpsall – a neighbourhood about three miles north of Manchester’s city centre.

Police shoot man at the scene

A man believed to be the offender was shot by firearms officers at the scene at 9.38am.

Video posted on social media appeared to show police officers pointing guns at someone laying on the ground outside the front of the synagogue. The armed officers shouted at onlookers to “get back” and “move on”.

Members of the army with a bomb disposal robot at the scene. Pic: PA
Image:
Members of the army with a bomb disposal robot at the scene. Pic: PA

A member of the public is helped from the scene. Pic: PA
Image:
A member of the public is helped from the scene. Pic: PA

The person on the ground is seen starting to get up before there is the sound of a gunshot and they fall to the ground.

Another person was shown lying motionless on the ground outside the synagogue gates.

What is happening now?

Armed police officers, emergency response teams and fire crews are at the scene, with police helicopters flying overhead.

Pic: PA
Image:
Pic: PA

Middleton Road has been closed between Wilton Road and Crumpsall Lane, the Manchester Evening News reported, adding a police cordon is in place.

North West Ambulance Service said in a statement: “Following reports of an incident on Middleton Road in Crumpsall, the trust has dispatched resources to the scene.

“We are currently assessing the situation and working with other members of the emergency services.

“Our priority is to ensure people receive the medical help they need as quickly as possible.”