Heaton Park Synagogue Attack: One Victim Was Likely Fired Upon by Police
During a tragic turn of events, one of the individuals killed at the Manchester synagogue attack appears to have been fatally wounded by armed police officers.
Official Statement Confirms Firearm Injury
The senior officer of Greater Manchester Police stated that the Home Office pathologist has initially concluded the victim died of a gunshot wound.
“Overnight, we have taken advice from the Home Office pathologist ahead of detailed autopsies scheduled for this afternoon. The Home Office pathologist has advised that preliminary findings show a victim likely sustained a injury matching a gunshot injury.”
Attacker Information
The suspect, Jihad al-Shamie, was not carrying a firearm, and all discharged rounds were by the police officers at the scene.
It is believed the deceased was part of the group positioned at the entrance trying to stop the attacker from entering the building.
Outcome of Intervention
“It follows therefore that subject to additional analysis, the wound may sadly have been sustained as a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the urgently required action taken by my officers to bring this vicious attack to an end.”
Victims Identified
The two victims killed in the attack at Heaton Park synagogue located in Manchester on Thursday had been named as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz, 66 years old.
These individuals were killed when a vehicle was employed to crash through the grounds of the local Jewish place of worship, then stabbed worshippers in a six-minute rampage that concluded after police with firearms fired upon him, ending his life near the synagogue entrance.
Additional Injuries
Three more people 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 currently receiving treatment sustained a firearm injury, which is mercifully not life threatening. Officials think the two individuals were close together behind the synagogue door, as attendees showed courage to prevent the attacker from gaining entry.”
Ongoing Assistance
“We extend our condolences are directed toward the affected relatives, and broader public, touched by this incident in the region and elsewhere. Trained personnel are offering aid and assistance for everyone involved, including our brave first responders.”
Suspect Background
Authorities identified the perpetrator as Shamie, 35, a British citizen of Syrian origin.
Local law enforcement reported that three other people – two male suspects and an older female – had been arrested “for alleged commission, preparation and instigation of terrorist activities”.
More details to follow ...
