British authorities have confirmed that the deadly attack outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, on Yom Kippur, was an act of terror.
Police say the attacker, who drove a vehicle into pedestrians and then stabbed people near the synagogue entrance, was shot dead by officers at the scene.
Initial delays in confirming his death were reportedly due to concerns that the suspect may have been carrying an explosive device, although police say it remains unclear if he had a bomb.
Authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing risk.
The assault left two people dead and three others seriously injured, prompting an immediate response from armed police and bomb disposal units.
A cordon was established around the synagogue while emergency services attended to victims and secured the area.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, the British national head of counter-terrorism, said police believe they know the identity of the attacker and have arrested two additional suspects in connection with the incident.
Taylor described the attack as “appalling” and urged public cooperation as investigations continue.
DAILY POST reports tgat eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as the suspect attempted to break into the synagogue after crashing his vehicle and stabbing people nearby.
Chava Lewin, a local resident, told British media: “The second he got out of the car he started stabbing anyone near him. He went for the security guard and tried to break into the synagogue. Someone barricaded the door. Everyone is in utter shock.”
Security authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, including whether it was part of a wider plot.
Bomb disposal teams remain on site, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Manchester Synagogue attack confirmed as terror incident