Counter Terrorism Police have launched a full investigation following a shocking attack outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in north Manchester this morning.
Suspects in Custody
- Three suspects arrested on terrorism charges
- Two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s held
- Scenes remain active at White House Avenue, Crumpsall, and Langley Crescent, Prestwich
Attacker Identified
Authorities believe the attacker is 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent. While formal ID is pending, police are confident. A suspicious device worn by the man was deemed non-viable.
Official records show no prior Prevent referrals for the individual, surprising investigators.
Casualties and Injuries
Tragically, two innocent men died in the incident. Three others remain critically injured in hospital, including one stabbed and another hit by the attacker’s car. A third man later arrived at hospital with injuries possibly linked to the police stopping the suspect.
“We are working to formally identify those who have tragically been killed and provide support to their loved ones, in addition to the injured and the wider community,” Counter Terrorism Police stated.
The investigation continues as police seek to uncover the motive behind this terror attack.
