Two people have been killed and three others seriously wounded in a terror attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester, U.K., on Thursday, October 2, 2025. The suspect, who drove a car into people and stabbed members of the public, was shot dead by police.
Early Response
Police were called shortly after 9:30 a.m. by a witness who reported a car driving toward pedestrians and a stabbing. Officers arrived within minutes and contained the incident swiftly. Authorities praised the bravery of synagogue security and eyewitnesses, which helped prevent the suspect from entering the synagogue.
Victims
Two victims were confirmed dead and four others seriously injured. Greater Manchester Police confirmed the fatalities were members of the Jewish community, though identities have not been released.
Suspect and Arrests
The unidentified suspect was killed by firearms officers seven minutes after police were called. Authorities initially did not confirm his death due to safety concerns involving suspicious items resembling explosives on his person; a bomb disposal unit was deployed. Two additional arrests have been made in connection with the attack.
Terrorism Investigation
Six hours after the incident, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the attack is being treated as terrorism. UK police forces have increased patrols at synagogues and Jewish sites nationwide to reassure affected communities.
Motive
The motive remains unknown, though the attack coincided with Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Government Response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack and ordered additional officers at synagogues across the U.K. He returned early from a European summit to chair the government’s emergency committee.
Community and Official Reactions
- The Jewish community expressed shock at the attack, with the Israeli embassy in London calling it “abhorrent and deeply distressing.”
- The Community Security Trust labeled it an “appalling attack on the holiest day of the Jewish year.”
- King Charles III and Queen Camilla expressed their shock and praised emergency services for their swift response.
Rising Antisemitism
Antisemitic incidents in the U.K. have increased significantly following recent conflicts in Israel and Gaza, with over 1,500 incidents reported in the first half of 2025, the second-highest number ever recorded.
Meta description (Yoast SEO): Two killed and three seriously injured in a terrorist attack at a Manchester synagogue on Yom Kippur. Police shot the suspect dead and two others were arrested.
