Tragedy struck at the Heaton Park Hebrew Synagogue in Manchester earlier this month, and an inquest has revealed more about the shocking events. Authorities confirmed that Jihad Al-Shamie, the attacker, died from multiple gunshot wounds. The incident unfolded on Yom Kippur, a sacred day for Jews, as worshippers gathered in the morning. Al-Shamie, equipped with a knife and a fake suicide belt, drove his car into the synagogue’s security gates and attempted to storm the place of worship.
Police responded swiftly, and armed officers were forced to open fire when Al-Shamie charged at them. Detective Chief Superintendent Lewis Hughes reported that officers were left with no choice but to discharge several rounds as the suspect ran aggressively towards them.
The inquest revealed heartbreaking details of the day’s events. Al-Shamie tragically killed two cherished members of the synagogue: Melvin Cravitz, 66, and Adrian Daulby, 53. Mr Cravitz suffered fatal knife wounds, while Mr Daulby, who bravely tried to secure the synagogue’s doors, died from a gunshot wound accidentally fired by police during the chaotic scene.
The brief inquest, attended by Al-Shamie’s family via video link, confirmed the circumstances of his death. Investigations are ongoing as the community mourns the loss of two innocent lives, and thoughts are with the victims’ families during this difficult time. The bravery of the police officers involved and the resilience of the local community in the face of such a terrifying attack remain commendable.