Displaying items by tag: synagogue

Police have confirmed that Jihad al-Shamie, 35, phoned 999 claiming allegiance to IS moments after launching his deadly car and knife attack at Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester. Shamie drove into worshippers before stabbing several people, killing two men -  Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz - who tried to stop him entering the synagogue. Wearing a fake suicide vest and armed with two knives, he was shot dead by police. Investigators say no evidence links him to organised terror networks, describing him as a possible 'lone wolf’. The swift actions of security staff, worshippers, and armed officers prevented greater loss of life. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is now examining whether police gunfire contributed to Daulby’s death or other injuries. Shamie, a Syrian-born British resident on bail for alleged rape, had a history of abusive relationships and disturbing radical views. The community remains in shock, mourning the victims while praising the courage of those who confronted the attacker and protected the congregation.