A car-ramming and stabbing incident occurred outside a synagogue in Crumpsall, Greater Manchester, on the Jewish holiday Yom Kippur, leaving at least four people injured. The incident began when a member of the public reported a car being driven towards pedestrians and a man being stabbed at 9:31 am local time.
Greater Manchester Police have declared a major incident and deployed firearm officers after receiving reports of a security guard being attacked with a knife. One man, believed to be the offender, was shot by police. The national code word “Plato” was activated, indicating a potential marauding terror attack.
Footage shared on social media appears to show police officers aiming their guns at a person on the ground in front of the synagogue, ordering bystanders to move back. The individual attempts to rise before being shot, causing them to collapse. Another person is seen lying near the synagogue gates with visible blood.
In response to the incident, British Prime Minister Kier Starmer has cut short his attendance at a summit in Denmark. Additional police are being deployed to synagogues across the UK to ensure safety. The increased security measures aim to reassure the Jewish community and prevent potential further attacks.
The incident has significant implications for community safety and religious tolerance. As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine the motivations behind the attack and to bring those responsible to justice. The UK government’s swift response and deployment of additional security measures demonstrate a commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and preventing future incidents.
