Two killed in Manchester synagogue attack, suspect shot dead by police

Manchester attack leaves Jewish community shaken amid Yom Kippur

Manchester, October 3, 2025: A violent attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester on Thursday left two Jewish worshippers dead and three others injured. Police have named the attacker as Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British man of Syrian descent. He was shot dead by officers at the scene.

The attack unfolded during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Al-Shamie reportedly drove a car at people outside the synagogue before stabbing bystanders with a knife. Three additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, which Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have declared a “terrorist incident.”

Timeline of the attack

Police received the first alert at 09:31 am after reports of a car being driven at pedestrians. Armed officers arrived at 09:34 am, and seven minutes later, Al-Shamie was shot as he attempted to get up while wearing a suspicious device, later deemed not to be a viable explosive. Security staff and Rabbi Daniel Walker were credited with preventing the attacker from entering the synagogue, ensuring many worshippers were kept safe.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes outside the synagogue, with people fleeing as the attacker tried to stab individuals nearby. Rabbi Walker, who was leading the prayers, calmly guided the congregation to safety, shutting doors to prevent the assailant from gaining access.

Reactions and security measures

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the attack, describing it as a “terrorist attack” targeting Jews because of their faith. He pledged enhanced protection for Jewish communities across the UK, announcing additional police presence at synagogues. London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan also promised increased visibility policing around Jewish places of worship.

Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis described the incident as the tragic outcome of “unrelenting waves of Jew hatred on our streets, campuses, social media, and elsewhere.”

GMP Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson commended security staff, synagogue personnel, and the fast police response for preventing a larger tragedy. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community and reaffirming that the city will not tolerate attacks on its communities.

Investigation underway

The three individuals arrested are a woman in her 60s and two men in their 30s, suspected of involvement in the commission, preparation, or instigation of terrorism. Investigators are reviewing all aspects of the attack, including the attacker’s background. Al-Shamie reportedly entered the UK as a child and was granted British citizenship in 2006.

Authorities continue to examine crime scenes across Manchester, including White House Avenue, Crumpsall, and Langley Crescent, Prestwich. No prior referrals for Al-Shamie were made to Prevent, the UK government’s anti-radicalisation scheme.

The attack has raised concerns over antisemitism and safety of Jewish communities in the UK, prompting calls for greater vigilance and counter-extremism measures.

Conclusion

Thursday’s synagogue attack in Manchester underscores rising security concerns for Jewish communities and the continuing threat of extremist violence in the UK. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation, heightened protection measures, and support for affected families, while the city mourns the tragic loss of life.