Deadly Manchester Synagogue Attack: What We Know About the Victims and Attacker

In the quiet early hours of a sacred day, terror struck close to a synagogue in Manchester, northwest England. As Jewish worshippers gathered to mark Yom Kippur—the holiest day in the Jewish calendar—a car plowed into a group of pedestrians, followed by a stabbing that shattered the morning peace. British police have confirmed that two people lost their lives in the attack, with three others in serious condition, leaving a community reeling from the sudden violence.

The incident unfolded on Thursday near the Sha'arei Shalom synagogue, a place of worship and solace for many in the area. Eyewitnesses described hearing screams and the screech of tires as the vehicle accelerated into the crowd just as families arrived for services. "It was supposed to be a day of reflection and prayer," one local resident told reporters, his voice heavy with disbelief. "Instead, it's become a nightmare no one saw coming."

Authorities responded swiftly, arresting a 32-year-old man at the scene, believed to be the sole attacker. He was armed with a knife and reportedly shouted antisemitic slurs during the assault. Police have not yet released his identity, pending formal charges, but initial investigations point to a possible hate crime motive. Greater Manchester Police's counter-terrorism unit is leading the probe, underscoring the gravity of the situation amid rising concerns over antisemitism in the UK.

Among the victims were a 68-year-old grandmother, Ruth Cohen, who was walking with her daughter to the synagogue when the car struck her. She succumbed to her injuries en route to the hospital. The second fatality was identified as David Levy, a 45-year-old teacher and active member of the local Jewish community center. Three others—a young mother, an elderly man, and a teenager—remain hospitalized, fighting for recovery. Their stories, pieced together from family statements and community tributes, paint a picture of ordinary people caught in an extraordinary horror.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack in a heartfelt statement from Downing Street, calling it "an abhorrent act of hatred that has no place in our society." He pledged full support for the investigation and extended condolences to the victims' families, emphasizing unity in the face of division. Local faith leaders from across Manchester have joined in solidarity, organizing vigils to honor the lost lives and denounce bigotry.

This tragedy comes at a tense time, with UK authorities reporting a spike in antisemitic incidents following global events. Community groups like the Board of Deputies of British Jews have urged heightened security at places of worship, while police presence around synagogues nationwide has been bolstered. As the investigation unfolds, questions linger about how to prevent such attacks and foster healing in a fractured city.

For the full details and ongoing updates, read the original reporting from Al Jazeera. Our thoughts are with the Manchester community during this difficult time.