Two people died and three were injured in a Manchester synagogue attack. Police now believe one victim was unintentionally shot by officers responding to the terrorist incident.
A tragic attack at a synagogue in Manchester has left two people dead and three others hospitalized. The attack took place on Thursday, October 2, at the Heaton Park synagogue in Greater Manchester. Authorities have since issued a statement revealing new details about the incident, including the possibility that one of the victims was unintentionally shot by responding police officers.
Details of the Attack
The victims of the attack have been identified as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both of whom tragically lost their lives. The suspected attacker, 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent, drove a car into members of the public before getting out and stabbing individuals outside the synagogue.
#UPDATE | Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson has provided an update following yesterday’s tragic incident on Middleton Road in Crumpsall. pic.twitter.com/VWTpOE4KG3
— Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice) October 3, 2025
Al-Shamie was shot and killed by police at the scene. According to Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson of the Greater Manchester Police, one of the victims killed appears to have been struck by a gunshot fired by officers during the response. It is believed that Al-Shamie was not carrying a firearm, and that the only shots fired were from GMP’s Authorised Firearms Officers attempting to stop the attack.
Police Response and Investigation
Watson explained that, following the attack, a full investigation has been launched, with post-mortem examinations scheduled for the victims. Early inquiries indicate that the victim who was struck by the gunshot sustained injuries consistent with a bullet wound. The Chief Constable described the injury as a “tragic and unforeseen consequence” of the officers’ quick response to stop Al-Shamie’s rampage.
“We have also been advised by medical professionals that one of the three victims currently receiving treatment in hospital has also suffered a gunshot wound,” Watson said. Fortunately, the injury is not life-threatening. The three victims are believed to have been near the synagogue door, where worshippers showed remarkable bravery in trying to prevent the attacker from gaining entry.
Community Impact and Reactions
The Al-Shamie family has condemned the attack in a statement, calling it a “profound shock”. They emphasized their complete disapproval of the actions of their relative, describing it as a “heinous act” targeting innocent civilians. The family also expressed their sympathy for the victims and their families, offering their thoughts and prayers for their strength and comfort.
“We fully distance ourselves from this attack and express our deep shock and sorrow over what has happened,” they added.
The attack has left the Jewish community in Greater Manchester and beyond in mourning, as people process the horrifying events. Chief Constable Watson extended his condolences to the families and the wider community, acknowledging the bravery of both the victims and the first responders who acted quickly to prevent further harm.
Support for Victims and First Responders
Specialist officers are providing ongoing support to the families of the victims, as well as to the first responders who dealt with the tragic incident. Watson emphasized that the community and all those affected by the attack are in the thoughts of the Greater Manchester Police.
