Manchester Synagogue Incident: One Victim Was Likely Fired Upon by Officers
In a tragic turn of events, a individuals lost at the Heaton Park synagogue assault appears to have been fatally wounded by armed police officers.
Police Announcement Reveals Firearm Injury
The senior officer from the local force announced that a forensic expert has initially concluded the victim died of a gunshot wound.
“We sought guidance overnight from the Home Office pathologist before detailed autopsies scheduled for this afternoon. The expert indicated that he has provisionally determined a victim likely sustained a wound consistent with a firearm wound.”
Suspect Details
The assailant, Jihad al-Shamie, did not have a gun, and all discharged rounds came from the police officers at the scene.
It is believed the deceased was among those positioned at the entrance seeking to prevent the attacker from entering the building.
Consequences of Police Action
“It follows therefore that subject to additional analysis, the wound was unfortunately incurred as a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the urgently required action employed by my officers to bring this vicious attack to an end.”
Victims Identified
Both individuals killed in the attack at Heaton Park synagogue in north Manchester on Thursday were identified as Adrian Daulby, aged 53 and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.
These individuals were killed when a vehicle was employed to ram into the grounds of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue, before the attacker targeted attendees in a six-minute rampage that ended only when police with firearms fired upon him, ending his life at the door of the temple.
Additional Injuries
Three others were seriously injured in the attack on the Day of Atonement, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish year.
Watson said, “Medical professionals have informed us that another injured person currently receiving treatment has also suffered a firearm injury, which is fortunately non-fatal. It is believed the two individuals were near each other at the entrance, as attendees showed courage to prevent the attacker from gaining entry.”
Community Support
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the affected relatives, and the wider community, touched by this incident across Greater Manchester and beyond. Trained personnel are providing support and care for everyone involved, including the courageous emergency teams.”
Suspect Background
Authorities identified the perpetrator as Shamie, 35, a UK national of Syrian origin.
Greater Manchester police said that three other people – two male suspects and an older female – had been arrested “on suspicion of involvement in planning of acts of terrorism”.
More details to follow ...
