Two Killed in Deadly Attack on Manchester Synagogue During Yom Kippur

A devastating incident occurred outside a synagogue in Manchester, England, on October 2, 2025, when a car ramming and stabbing attack claimed the lives of two people and injured three others. The Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall was the scene of the attack, which took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

The attack unfolded at approximately 9:31 am BST, as worshippers gathered at the synagogue for the holiest day of the year. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and horror as the assailant rammed a vehicle into pedestrians and stabbed others. The attacker, who claimed to have a suicide belt, was shot dead by police.

Greater Manchester Police declared a major incident and initiated Operation Plato, treating it as a potential marauding terrorist attack. The police response was swift, with armed officers and emergency services rushing to the scene.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life in this incident,” said a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police. “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack, describing it as “horrific,” especially given its timing on Yom Kippur. He chaired a COBR emergency meeting and announced additional police assets would be deployed to synagogues nationwide.

“I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall,” Starmer said in a statement. “The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific.”

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring possible motives and assessing security measures. The deployment of extra police assets aims to reassure the Jewish community and prevent further incidents.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla expressed shock and sadness, acknowledging the incident’s impact on the Jewish community. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the community,” a spokesperson for the royal family said.

The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, highlighting concerns about security and anti-Semitic attacks. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to determine the motivations behind the attack and assess potential vulnerabilities.

The community is in shock, with many expressing their grief and outrage on social media. “This is a horrific attack on our community,” said a spokesperson for the Jewish community. “We appreciate the swift response of the emergency services and the support of the government.”

The attack has also sparked widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum. “This is a terrible reminder of the dangers we face,” said a senior opposition politician. “We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and call for increased vigilance.”

As the community comes together to mourn the victims, the investigation continues to piece together the events surrounding the attack. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation in the face of terrorism.

The authorities are urging anyone with information about the attack to come forward. The public’s support is crucial in helping the investigation and preventing further incidents.

The incident has left the community in shock, and the city is rallying around the victims and their families. The attack may have shaken the community, but it will not define it. The people of Manchester and the Jewish community will come together to support each other and rebuild.

The incident is a stark reminder of the impact of terrorism on communities and the need for continued support and vigilance. The authorities will work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that the community can feel safe.

In times like these, communities come together, and the people of Manchester have shown remarkable resilience. The focus now is on supporting the victims and their families and ensuring that the community can heal.

The incident will be remembered as a dark day in the city’s history, but the response to it will be remembered as a testament to the strength and resilience of the community.