Two killed in Synagogue attack in Greater Manchester

A major incident has been declared following reports of a stabbing and car ramming at the Heaton Park Congregation Synagogue on Middleton Road, Crumpsall.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said that officers were called to the scene at 9:31am, after a member of the public reported that they “had witnessed a car being driven towards members of the public, and that one man had been stabbed.”

At 9:38am, GMP confirmed that fire arms officers intervened, with one man, believed to be the offender, being shot.

Paramedics attended the scene at 9:41am, tending to four people who suffered stab and vehicle wounds. Two people have now died.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said to local residents, “avoid the area.” He added that “At the same time, I can give some assurance that the immediate danger appears to be over.” He said that GMP had dealt with the incident “effectively.”

The incident this morning comes on the day of Yom Kippur. This is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, and sees large numbers of Jewish people fasting and attending Synagogues. Prime Minister Kier Starmer says that the attack happening on Yom Kippur “makes it all the more horrific.”

The PM has also cut short his trip to Copenhagen, and will chair an emergency meeting this afternoon.

Please note that this is a breaking news story and Shock News will keep you updated with this story.

(Source- Greater Manchester Police & the BBC)

Image Credit- Getty Images