Manchester Synagogue Attack on Yom Kippur Leaves Two Dead, Several Injured
A devastating attack outside a synagogue in north Manchester has left two people dead and several others seriously injured, shocking the Jewish community during one of the most sacred days of the year. The suspected attacker was also killed after being shot by police who rushed to the scene.
The incident unfolded at around 9:30 a.m. local time on October 2 near the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, just as worshippers were gathered for Yom Kippur prayers. Authorities said the suspect drove a vehicle toward pedestrians and then attacked with a knife, injuring multiple people before police intervened.
Immediate Response from Police and Witnesses
According to Greater Manchester Police, the first emergency calls came from a witness who saw the vehicle strike members of the public and reported that a man had been stabbed. Officers were dispatched within minutes, and paramedics treated the injured at the scene.
Three people remain in serious condition in hospital, while two victims were pronounced dead. Officials confirmed that officers fatally shot the suspected attacker to prevent further harm.
Police also noted that “suspicious items” were discovered with the suspect, prompting a bomb disposal unit to respond. A “loud noise” was heard as investigators inspected the suspect’s vehicle, but authorities later reassured residents that there was no continuing danger to the public.
Worshippers Evacuated on Yom Kippur
The attack occurred as hundreds of Jewish worshippers observed Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. Police said a “large number” of people were inside the synagogue at the time of the incident. Thanks to the rapid intervention of law enforcement, the attacker was prevented from entering the building, likely averting a much larger tragedy.
Community members were quickly evacuated, and the area around the synagogue was sealed off by heavily armed police. Witnesses described chaos and fear as worshippers hurried away while emergency responders secured the site.
Leaders Condemn the Violence
The attack prompted swift and emotional responses from national and local leaders.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was “appalled” by the violence, calling it “all the more horrific” for taking place on Yom Kippur. He added that police presence would be stepped up at synagogues across the country.
King Charles issued a message of condolence, expressing that he was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the events, and emphasized solidarity with the Jewish community.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham praised the quick actions of emergency services, while London Mayor Sadiq Khan said police in the capital would also increase patrols around Jewish places of worship to reassure residents.
Emily Spurrell, who chairs Britain’s Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, confirmed that forces nationwide were deploying additional security resources in the wake of the attack.
Growing Concerns Over Antisemitism
The tragedy comes against the backdrop of a troubling rise in antisemitism in Britain. According to recent figures, more than 1,500 antisemitic incidents were reported in the first half of 2025, the second-highest number recorded for that time period. Such incidents range from physical assaults to vandalism, threats, and hate speech.
The Community Security Trust, a Jewish security organization, has repeatedly warned of increased risks to Jewish individuals and institutions, especially around major holidays and periods of international tension.
Manchester itself is home to around 30,000 Jewish residents, one of the largest Jewish populations in the UK. Local leaders have expressed both grief and determination to ensure the community feels safe.
A City in Mourning
For many in Manchester, the attack is a painful reminder of the vulnerabilities religious communities face. While authorities stressed that there is no ongoing threat, the sense of loss and fear lingers.
Community members have already begun organizing vigils, and faith leaders across the city have called for unity in the wake of violence. Messages of solidarity have poured in from across the UK, with many emphasizing the importance of standing against hate and ensuring that places of worship remain safe havens.
“This was supposed to be a day of prayer and reflection,” one congregant said after leaving the synagogue. “Instead, it turned into a day of fear and heartbreak. But we will not let this destroy our faith or our community.”