Authorities reported that at least four individuals sustained injuries on Thursday morning during an assault involving a vehicle and a knife outside a Manchester synagogue.
According to Greater Manchester Police, officers responded around 9:30 a.m. to the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue following reports of a vehicle being driven into pedestrians and an individual being stabbed. Armed officers subsequently declared a major incident and discharged their weapons moments later, hitting a person identified as the probable assailant.
Emergency medical personnel arrived at the location shortly thereafter and were observed providing aid to those affected.
The incident occurred on Yom Kippur, considered the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar, which concludes later today.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is cutting short his visit to Denmark and plans to preside over an “emergency meeting” in London with cabinet members and other officials.
Starmer announced that increased police resources are being deployed to synagogues nationwide.
“I am deeply shocked by the assault at a synagogue in Crumpsall,” Starmer posted on X.
He added, “The occurrence of this event on Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar, renders it even more dreadful. My condolences are with the families of all victims, and I extend my gratitude to the emergency services and all initial responders.”
This situation is still unfolding. Further updates will be provided as they become available.