What happened outside the Manchester synagogue
Four people were injured in an attack outside the Heaton Park synagogue in the Crumpsall area of Manchester on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. Police said they were called around 9:30 local time (10:30 CET) after a witness reported a vehicle driving into pedestrians and a man being stabbed near the synagogue gates.
Emergency services treated four victims for injuries caused by both the vehicle and knife wounds. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as officers and bystanders moved to assist those affected, with bystanders reportedly assisting before paramedics arrived.
Authorities did not immediately specify the exact nature of every injury, but a security guard is reported to have been struck with a knife, according to witnesses who contacted the police. The scene remained cordoned as investigators began assessing the sequence of events and collecting evidence.
Police response and what is known about the suspect
Greater Manchester Police said shots were fired by officers at the scene, and one man was hit by gunfire—police did not immediately confirm whether he died or survived. They indicated that the person shot is believed to be the assailant, but authorities have not provided a definitive statement on his condition.
In the immediate aftermath, GMP said there was no ongoing danger to the public. A security operation continued as investigators sought to determine the attacker’s motives and whether others were involved.
Emergency response and local leadership reactions
Manchester’s mayor, Andy Burnham, described the incident as horrifying and urged residents not to speculate on social media while officials worked to uncover what happened. He thanked the police and emergency services for their rapid response, stressing that public safety remains the priority as the investigation progresses.
The incident occurred as the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, was attending the European Political Community summit in Copenhagen. A government source said Starmer would cut short his attendance to return to the United Kingdom, underscoring the seriousness with which the government is treating the attack.
Context and ongoing investigation
Sunday’s attack coincides with Yom Kippur, a day of fasting and prayer for Jews around the world, when many worshippers gather at synagogues. Police have appealed to anyone who witnessed the incident or has video footage from the Crumpsall area to come forward to assist with the investigation. Detectives are reviewing CCTV and speaking to witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify any accomplices.
Authorities have stressed that the investigation is at an early stage, and officials are ensuring communities affected by the incident receive support. Local leaders have urged calm and solidarity as investigators determine the facts and determine if this event was a hate crime or a broader act of violence.
What comes next
Greater Manchester Police will continue the inquiry in coordination with counter-terrorism units if the evidence suggests an extremist motive. Residents in Crumpsall and surrounding areas can expect a continued police presence as investigators work at the scene and collect testimonies. Officials will likely provide updates as more information becomes available and confirm the condition of those injured, including the person believed to be the attacker.
