Rape Suspect Behind Synagogue Terror Attack
Jihad al-Shamie, the man who launched a deadly terror attack at a synagogue, was out on police bail for rape when he struck. The 35-year-old Syrian-born Briton was still under investigation for rape earlier this year, Greater Manchester Police confirmed.
Yom Kippur Horror: 2 Dead, 4 Injured
Al-Shamie struck at 9:30am on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Wearing a fake bomb vest, he rammed his car into worshippers outside Heaton Park synagogue in Prestwich before stabbing terrified bystanders.
- Melvin Cravitz, 66, died at the scene
- Adrian Daulby, 53, was fatally shot by police while heroically barricading the synagogue door
Four others were injured, three seriously. Police shot dead al-Shamie just seven minutes into the rampage.
Unknown to Terror Watchlists, Dark History Emerges
Despite the brutality, al-Shamie was not on any counter-terrorism watchlists or Prevent schemes. Security services were blind to the threat he posed. But police are probing a link to chilling death threats sent in 2012 to ex-Tory MP John Howell, signed by someone called “Jihad Alshamie.”
Neighbours described him as a recluse living alone in a Prestwich council house for 10 years. His father reportedly worked as a trauma surgeon in war zones. Al-Shamie also worked as an English and computing tutor.
Heroic Victim Remembered, Police Conduct Scrutinised
“Adrian was a hero and tragically lost his life in an act of courage to save others. His final act was one of profound bravery. He will forever be remembered.”
Adrian Daulby’s family paid tribute to his bravery. Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Police have self-referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct after the fatal shooting. Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson said the shooting of Daulby was likely an unintended consequence of stopping the attacker.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed al-Shamie was unknown to security services and said the investigation is ongoing and moving quickly.
