Police Respond to Stabbing and Vehicle Attack Outside Manchester Synagogue on Yom Kippur

Four individuals sustained injuries during a disturbing incident outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester on October 2. The attack, which involved a car ramming and subsequent stabbings, prompted Greater Manchester Police to declare a major incident shortly after 9:30 a.m. Evidence suggests that the violence occurred around the time of the Jewish Yom Kippur holiday, a significant day in the Jewish calendar, which adds an extra layer of shock to the event. Emergency services were deployed promptly, with police firearms officers arriving on the scene and discharging their weapons at 9:38 a.m. It has been reported that one man, believed to be the attacker, was shot by the officers. Thus far, it has been confirmed that four members of the public were injured, suffering from wounds inflicted by both the vehicle and stabber. In light of the seriousness of the situation, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his outrage over the attack. He has cut short his discussions in Denmark with EU officials to return to the UK. Starmer stated, "The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it all the more horrific. My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders." Manchester's mayor, Andy Burnham, also addressed the situation, calling it a serious incident but reassuring the public that the immediate threat appeared to be neutralized following a quick response by the police. He advised citizens against speculating on social media, acknowledging that the local Jewish community would be feeling particularly anxious given the nature and timing of the attack. The North West Ambulance Service confirmed their teams were at the scene assessing the situation and providing medical assistance to those injured. Their focus was on ensuring that victims received help as swiftly as possible. In response to the incident, Manchester police enacted Operation Plato, which is a protocol for handling marauding terrorist attacks. This initiative involves a coordinated effort across multiple agencies to address any threats that could endanger lives. The Community Security Trust, a charity focused on safeguarding the Jewish community, condemned the attack as "appalling" and is collaborating with police and local community leaders in the aftermath. They expressed gratitude towards the police and synagogue security for their immediate and effective actions during this distressing event. As investigations continue, authorities are urging the public to remain calm while they work diligently to understand the full context of this attack. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2