Heaton Park Synagogue Attack: A Casualty Was Likely Shot by Officers
In a tragic development, a victims killed at the Heaton Park synagogue assault appears to have been shot dead by law enforcement personnel.
Official Statement Reveals Firearm Injury
The senior officer from the local force stated that a forensic expert has initially concluded the man died of a bullet injury.
“Overnight, we have taken advice from the Home Office pathologist before detailed autopsies scheduled for later today. The Home Office pathologist indicated that preliminary findings show one of the deceased victims would appear to have suffered a injury consistent with a firearm wound.”
Attacker Information
The assailant, Jihad al-Shamie, did not have a gun, and all discharged rounds came from authorized firearms personnel on site.
It is believed the victim was among those positioned at the entrance trying to stop the assailant from entering the building.
Outcome of Intervention
“It follows therefore that subject to further forensic examination, this injury may sadly have been sustained as a unintended and heartbreaking result of the necessary rapid response taken by my officers to halt this brutal assault.”
Victims Identified
The two victims who lost their lives at Heaton Park synagogue in north Manchester on Thursday had been named as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz, 66 years old.
These individuals were killed when a car was used to crash through the property of the local Jewish place of worship, before the attacker targeted attendees in a six-minute rampage that ended only when police with firearms fired upon him, killing him near the synagogue entrance.
Further Harm
Three more people sustained major injuries in the attack on the Day of Atonement, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish calendar.
The chief constable added, “Medical professionals have informed us that another injured person now hospitalized has also suffered a gunshot wound, which is fortunately non-fatal. It is believed the two individuals were close together behind the synagogue door, as worshippers acted bravely to prevent the attacker from gaining entry.”
Community Support
“Our thoughts and prayers are directed toward the affected relatives, and broader public, impacted by these events across Greater Manchester and beyond. Specialist officers are providing support and assistance for everyone involved, including the courageous emergency teams.”
Attacker Profile
Police named the perpetrator as the individual, thirty-five, a British citizen of Syrian descent.
Local law enforcement reported that three other people – two male suspects and an older female – had been detained “for alleged involvement in planning of terrorist activities”.
Additional information forthcoming ...
