Authorities have identified the two men who were killed during a violent attack at a synagogue in Manchester as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66. The assault, which occurred on Thursday during Yom Kippur—the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar—left three others seriously injured.
Police confirmed that one of the victims was fatally struck by gunfire when officers engaged the attacker. Another injured individual also sustained a gunshot wound, though their condition is not life-threatening.
The suspect, 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British national of Syrian descent, was shot dead at the scene. According to officials, he was not previously on the radar of counter-terrorism authorities. The Home Secretary described the ongoing investigation as fast-moving and said it is still unclear whether the attacker acted alone or was part of a wider network.
The attack began when Al-Shamie drove his car into pedestrians before exiting the vehicle and stabbing multiple people outside the synagogue.
Tributes have poured in for the victims. Adrian Daulby’s neighbour of over two decades, Abdul Rahimi, described him as “like an angel,” recalling how Daulby regularly exchanged gifts with his children during religious festivals and was widely loved in the community.
“This is heartbreaking. We’re still in shock,” Rahimi told the BBC.
Jewish community leaders have also spoken out. Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis expressed deep sorrow, calling the incident a tragic but feared escalation amid rising tensions.
“This wasn’t just an attack on Jews. It’s a wound to the whole of our society,” he said.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting Jewish life in the UK. She said it was vital that Jewish citizens feel secure in practicing their faith openly, and that funding for synagogue security may be reviewed.
“Increasing antisemitism is something we cannot ignore,” Mahmood said. “This government stands firmly against it.”
Greater Manchester Police have deployed additional officers to Jewish places of worship across the country and are continuing to support those affected.
Detective Chief Superintendent Lewis Hughes expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, promising respectful handling of the victims’ remains in accordance with cultural traditions. Both men were residents of the Crumpsall area.
Post-mortem examinations are being carried out, the Home Office confirmed.
