Manchester terror attack as two dead and four injured in synagogue stabbing on Yom Kippur

Two people have been killed and four seriously injured in a terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

A major counter-terrorism investigation is underway after an attacker drove a car into members of the public outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall at 9.30am, before stabbing several people. Greater Manchester Police confirmed the man was wearing a vest designed to resemble an explosive device. He was shot dead by armed officers within seven minutes of the first 999 call.

Four other people are being treated in hospital, three of whom remain in serious condition. GMP declared a major incident and later confirmed the device worn by the attacker was not viable.

The synagogue, which was busy with worshippers marking Yom Kippur, remained secure throughout the incident thanks to the swift response of synagogue security and police. The suspect did not gain entry into the building.

Chief Constable Stephen Watson praised the courage of worshippers and staff, and said the suspect had deliberately driven at members of the public before launching a knife attack. "This was a horrific attack, and we acted quickly to contain it," he said. "Thanks to the bravery of those present and the rapid response from our officers, further loss of life was prevented."

Two further arrests have been made in connection with the attack, and Counter Terrorism Policing is leading the ongoing investigation. While the motive is still under scrutiny, police have confirmed the incident is being treated as terrorism.

Security has since been heightened across Greater Manchester, particularly at synagogues and Jewish community sites. MP Lucy Powell said “urgent steps” have been taken to protect the Jewish community. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer returned to the UK to chair an emergency COBRA meeting, and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood travelled to GMP headquarters for a security briefing.

Eyewitnesses described seeing the attacker trying to break into the synagogue with a knife before being shot by police. A witness told BBC Radio Manchester he saw officers fire twice, including once after the suspect attempted to get back up from the ground.

In an emotional response, Jewish community leaders spoke of fear, mourning and shock. One local resident said: "This was supposed to be a holy day. Instead, it’s turned into a day of tragedy."

Public figures including the Bishop of Manchester, Mayor Andy Burnham, and the Prince and Princess of Wales have issued messages of support. A book of condolence has been opened at Manchester Central Library.

As part of the wider response, hospitals were briefly locked down and bomb disposal teams were deployed to inspect the attacker’s vehicle, which had been driven into the synagogue gates. GMP later confirmed the loud bang heard nearby came from police gaining entry into the vehicle as a precaution.

Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor of Counter Terrorism Policing confirmed the incident had been officially declared a terrorist attack and expressed condolences to the victims' families.

GMP has asked the public to avoid the area while investigations continue and has launched a casualty bureau for those worried about loved ones.