2 Dead in Knife and Car Attack at U.K. Synagogue on Yom Kippur, Suspect Shot by Police

Two people have died and three are in a serious condition following a stabbing and car attack outside a synagogue in England. 

In a press release, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were called shortly after 9:30 a.m. local time on Thursday, Oct. 2, with a report that a car had been driven towards people and one man had been stabbed outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester. GMP also said they received reports that a security guard had been attacked with a knife.

Police confirmed two people had died in a post on X.

“A third person, a man believed to be the offender, was shot by GMP Firearms Officers and is also believed to be deceased,” the post continued, adding that this “cannot currently be confirmed due to safety issues surrounding suspicious items on his person. The bomb disposal unit has been called and is now at the scene.”

Three others are in a serious condition following the incident, which happened on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. 

Authorities said a “large number” of people were worshipping at the synagogue at the time. 

In a statement, per BBC News, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the incident happening on Yom Kippur “makes it all the more horrific.” 

“I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall,” the statement read in part. “My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders.”

King Charles also shared his shock at the tragedy.

In a statement shared by Buckingham Palace, the King said, “‘My wife and I have been deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the horrific attack in Manchester, especially on such a significant day for the Jewish community. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this appalling incident and we greatly appreciate the swift actions of the emergency services.”

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said in a statement, “We know today’s horrifying attack, on the Jewish community’s holiest day, will have caused significant shock and fear throughout all of our communities.”

“We are grateful to the member of the public whose quick response to what they witnessed allowed our swift action, and as a result the offender was prevented from entering the synagogue,” the statement continued. “We remain in direct contact with all synagogues across Greater Manchester to provide reassurance and this will continue for as long as needed.”