October 8, 2025
A terror attack at Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur killed two people and injured several others. The UK mourns an act described as among its worst antisemitic terrorist incidents.
The city of Manchester and the wider UK are in mourning after a horrific antisemitic terrorist attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, which took place on 2 October 2025, during the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur. What should have been a peaceful day of worship turned into tragedy when a man, later identified as Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old Syrian-born British citizen, launched a violent assault outside the synagogue. Authorities have since declared the incident a terrorist act. Reuters+2The Guardian+2
According to investigations, the attacker first drove a car into pedestrians gathered outside the synagogue. He then exited the vehicle and began stabbing individuals in the area. Eyewitnesses said that many worshippers had arrived early for Yom Kippur services and were outside or entering the synagogue when the attack began. A fake explosive vest was reportedly part of the attacker’s apparel, heightening the fear and chaos. Reuters+2Wikipedia+2
Police and emergency services responded quickly. Armed Greater Manchester Police officers confronted the attacker and shot him dead at the scene. Among the casualties, two worshippers—Adrian Daulby (aged 53) and Melvin Cravitz (66)—were killed. One of them appears to have been fatally shot by police; the other was stabbed. Three others were seriously injured, including one from police gunfire, one by stabbing, another by the vehicle. The Independent+3Reuters+3Wikipedia+3
Leaders across the UK condemned the attack. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a “terrorist attack that attacked Jews because they are Jews.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the incident as “horrified by the antisemitic attack.” Sky News quoted Starmer warning that “hatred is rising again,” and pledged solidarity with the Jewish community. Sky News+2Reuters+2
The Jewish community in Manchester expressed deep grief, outrage and frustration. During a vigil held in the rain, many said they feel forgotten or let down by authorities, pointing to what they see as insufficient protection against rising antisemitism. AP News+1 Neighbouring communities—Muslim, Christian, and others—have publicly expressed support, solidarity, condemning the violence and reaffirming communal togetherness. WSLS+1
Security has been boosted at synagogues and Jewish sites throughout the UK. The attack has re-ignited national debates about antisemitism, hate crime laws, community relations, the role of counter-terror policing, and whether enough is being done to prevent extremist acts. Reuters+1
As investigations proceed, questions remain about the attacker’s motive, whether there were any warnings beforehand, and how police and intelligence agencies will prevent similar attacks. In mourning, the community is also demanding answers. This event is being described as one of the worst acts of antisemitic terrorism in modern UK history.
