At least two killed in stabbing and car ramming attack on Yom Kippur at synagogue in Manchester, UK police say

At least two people have been killed and three others seriously injured after a car-ramming and stabbing attack outside a synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

The incident took place near the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, north Manchester. Police say the attacker drove a car into members of the public before stabbing a man. Armed officers later shot the suspected assailant, who is believed to be dead.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed they were called at 9:31 a.m. by a witness who reported the attack. Paramedics arrived soon after, and worshipers inside the synagogue were safely evacuated.

Yom Kippur traditionally draws large gatherings for prayer and reflection, making synagogues particularly busy. Police declared PLATO, the national protocol for armed response to suspected terrorist incidents.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack “horrific,” especially given its timing. “My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected,” he posted on X. He announced that additional police units would be deployed to synagogues nationwide.

Starmer is returning early from a security meeting in Copenhagen to chair a UK government Cobra emergency committee meeting. Meanwhile, four local hospitals have been placed on lockdown, according to the Manchester Evening News.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham urged the public to avoid the area. “I can only imagine the fear this will cause for people in our Jewish community,” he said.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more details emerge.