Heaton Park Synagogue Attack: One Victim Was Likely Shot by Officers

During a tragic development, a individuals lost during the Heaton Park synagogue assault appears to have been fatally wounded by law enforcement personnel.

Police Announcement Confirms Gunshot Wound

The chief constable of Greater Manchester Police stated that a forensic expert has provisionally determined the victim died of a bullet injury.

“Overnight, we have taken advice from forensic specialists before detailed autopsies set to occur this afternoon. The Home Office pathologist indicated that he has provisionally determined a victim likely sustained a wound matching a gunshot injury.”

Suspect Details

The assailant, a 35-year-old individual, was not carrying a firearm, and the only shots fired came from authorized firearms personnel at the scene.

Authorities think the victim was part of the group behind the synagogue door trying to stop the attacker from gaining entry.

Outcome of Intervention

“It follows therefore pending further forensic examination, this injury was unfortunately incurred as a unintended and heartbreaking result of the necessary rapid response employed by my officers to bring this vicious attack to an end.”

Names Released

Both individuals who lost their lives at Heaton Park synagogue in north Manchester on Thursday were identified as Adrian Daulby, aged 53 and Melvin Cravitz, 66 years old.

These individuals were killed when a vehicle was employed to crash through the grounds of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue, then stabbed worshippers in a six-minute rampage that concluded after police with firearms shot at him twice, ending his life at the door of the temple.

Further Harm

Three others were seriously injured in the violent act on the Day of Atonement, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish calendar.

The chief constable added, “We have also been advised that another injured person now hospitalized sustained a firearm injury, which is mercifully not life threatening. Officials think both victims were close together at the entrance, as worshippers acted bravely to stop the assailant from getting inside.”

Community Support

“Our thoughts and prayers are directed toward the affected relatives, and the wider community, impacted by these events across Greater Manchester and beyond. Specialist officers are offering aid and assistance for all of those directly affected, including our brave first responders.”

Attacker Profile

Police named the attacker as the individual, 35, a UK national of Syrian origin.

Greater Manchester police said that three additional individuals – two men in their 30s and an older female – had been arrested “on suspicion of involvement in planning of terrorist activities”.

More details to follow ...