In a tragic turn of events, one of the individuals lost during the Heaton Park synagogue assault is believed to have been shot dead by armed police officers.
Official Statement Confirms Firearm Injury
The senior officer of Greater Manchester Police announced that the Home Office pathologist has provisionally determined the victim died of a gunshot wound.
“We sought guidance overnight from forensic specialists before detailed autopsies scheduled for this afternoon. The expert has advised that preliminary findings show one of the deceased victims would appear to have suffered a injury consistent with a firearm wound.”
Attacker Information
The suspect, a 35-year-old individual, did not have a firearm, and the only shots fired came from authorized firearms personnel at the scene.
It is believed the victim was among those positioned at the entrance trying to stop the attacker from entering the building.
Outcome of Intervention
“It follows therefore pending further forensic examination, this injury was unfortunately incurred as a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the necessary rapid response employed by my officers to halt this brutal assault.”
Names Released
Both individuals killed in the attack at Heaton Park synagogue located in Manchester on Thursday had been named as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.
The men were killed when a car was used to ram into the property of the local Jewish place of worship, then stabbed worshippers in a brief violent spree that ended only when armed officers fired upon him, ending his life at the door of the temple.
Additional Injuries
Three others were seriously injured in the attack on Yom Kippur, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish calendar.
Watson said, “Medical professionals have informed us that another injured person now hospitalized has also suffered a gunshot wound, which is mercifully not life threatening. Officials think both victims were close together behind the synagogue door, as worshippers acted bravely to prevent the attacker from getting inside.”
Ongoing Assistance
“We extend our condolences remain with the affected relatives, and the wider community, impacted by these events across Greater Manchester and beyond. Trained personnel are offering aid and care for all of those directly affected, including our brave first responders.”
Attacker Profile
Authorities identified the attacker as the individual, 35, a UK national of Syrian descent.
Greater Manchester police reported that three other people – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s – had been detained “for alleged involvement in planning of acts of terrorism”.
Additional information forthcoming ...
