2 dead in Manchester Synagogue attack, suspect shot

New Delhi, Oct 2: Two people have died and three others are in serious condition following a car and stabbing attack outside Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester on Thursday, authorities said.

The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, when a large number of worshippers were present. Police said a third person, believed to be the suspect, was shot by officers but his condition has not been confirmed due to “suspicious items on his person.” A bomb disposal unit is on the scene as a precaution. Footage from the incident shows police warning members of the public to “get back” while the suspect is seen with items strapped around his waist.

Emergency services were called at 09:31 BST after reports of a car being driven towards members of the public and a man being stabbed. Greater Manchester Police have declared the situation a major incident, and members of the public have been urged to avoid the area while investigations continue. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the attack as “horrific” and has cut short an official trip to Denmark to chair a Cobra meeting in London. Police have declared the incident a major emergency, and security has been stepped up around religious sites in Manchester as a precaution.