Heaton Park Synagogue Attack: A Casualty Appears to Have Been Fired Upon by Officers
During a devastating development, one of the victims lost during the Heaton Park synagogue attack is believed to have been shot dead by armed police officers.
Official Statement Reveals Firearm Injury
The senior officer of Greater Manchester Police stated that the Home Office pathologist has initially concluded the man died of a bullet injury.
“We sought guidance overnight from forensic specialists ahead of detailed autopsies set to occur later today. The Home Office pathologist has advised that preliminary findings show a victim likely sustained a injury consistent with a firearm wound.”
Suspect Details
The suspect, a 35-year-old individual, was not carrying a gun, and the only shots fired came from the police officers at the scene.
It is believed the deceased was among those behind the synagogue door trying to stop the assailant from gaining entry.
Consequences of Police Action
“Thus, it appears pending additional analysis, the wound may sadly have been sustained as a unintended and heartbreaking result 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 earlier this week were identified as Adrian Daulby, aged 53 and Melvin Cravitz, 66 years old.
The men lost their lives when a car was used to ram into the grounds of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue, before the attacker targeted attendees in a six-minute rampage that concluded after armed officers shot at him twice, killing him near the synagogue entrance.
Additional Injuries
Three more people were seriously injured in the attack on the Day of Atonement, the holiest day in the Jewish year.
Watson said, “Medical professionals have informed us that another injured person currently receiving treatment sustained a gunshot wound, which is mercifully not life threatening. It is believed the two individuals were near each other behind the synagogue door, as worshippers acted bravely to prevent the attacker from getting inside.”
Community Support
“We extend our condolences are directed toward the affected relatives, and broader public, impacted by this incident across Greater Manchester and beyond. Specialist officers are providing support and assistance for everyone involved, including our brave first responders.”
Attacker Profile
Police named the attacker as Shamie, 35, a British citizen of Syrian origin.
Greater Manchester police reported that three other people – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s – had been detained “on suspicion of involvement in planning of terrorist activities”.
More details to follow ...
