A fatal terror attack unfolded at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue on Middleton Road in Crumpsall, Manchester, on Thursday morning, coinciding with Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Police have identified the suspect shot dead at the scene as 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent. The attack, which occurred around 9:30 AM, began when a vehicle ploughed into members of the public outside the synagogue, followed by the driver launching a knife attack. Two men were tragically killed, and three others sustained serious injuries, with one victim later presenting at a hospital with an injury potentially sustained during the attacker's apprehension.

Counter Terror Policing confirmed that Al-Shamie appeared to be wearing an explosive device vest, which a bomb disposal unit later determined to be non-viable. Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Stephen Watson reported that armed officers shot the attacker within seven minutes of the initial 999 call. Investigations revealed that Al-Shamie was not listed in police or security service counter-terrorism records and had not been under investigation or referred to the government's Prevent anti-radicalisation scheme. He reportedly entered the UK as a young child and was granted British citizenship in 2006. Three other suspects – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s – have been arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation, and instigation of acts of terrorism, with police activity linked to these arrests taking place on White House Avenue, Crumpsall, and Langley Crescent in Prestwich.

Neighbours of Al-Shamie on Langley Crescent described him as living with a family member and often seen bench pressing in his garden. Simon Barlass, 56, recalled seeing a car he believed to be the one used in the attack parked near Al-Shamie's residence in the days leading up to the incident. Another neighbour mentioned Al-Shamie had lived there for ten years, appeared bulked up, and kept exercise weights in his garage, but rarely interacted with others.

The attack prompted strong condemnation from national and local leaders. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed horror at the antisemitic attack, confirming increased security at synagogues across the UK and pledging government support to keep the Jewish community safe. Mayor Andy Burnham noted the deep mark left on the city, thanking the Home Secretary for her visit and reassurance. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer warned of a rising tide of antisemitism, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a