Manchester Jewish House of Worship Assault Victims Identified
Two victims killed in an attack on a religious center in Manchester have been revealed by police as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby, and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.
Three additional individuals continue receiving medical care with critical wounds after the attacker used an automobile into people before using a bladed weapon on Thursday morning.
The assault, which law enforcement has confirmed was a act of terrorism, occurred on Judaism's holiest day, the holiest day in the Jewish religious calendar.
The perpetrator, who was killed by police at the location, was a thirty-five-year-old British citizen of Syrian background who was not previously known to terrorism investigators, as stated by security officials.
Official Statements
"Right now our hearts are shattered," Britain's senior Jewish leader stated.
In an interview with a major broadcast, he stated: "The tragic incident was a devastating impact to us, something which we had apprehensions regarding might happen because of the escalating tensions."
The attack was not only "a very dark time" for Jews in Britain "but for everyone in our country," he emphasized.
Official Reaction
"The government's duty is to ensure our Jewish population, our people can live their lives with security and assurance," a cabinet minister stated.
"We cannot allow Jewish citizens in our country to feel compelled to live a reduced Jewish identity, that they cannot go about their business and practice their faith and attend their religious centers in without fear," she added.
The assailant was not known to security services, she informed media outlets, and it was "too early" to say if there was a terrorist cell behind the attack.
Investigation Update
The police investigation was "continuing at pace" and there was an increased police presence at religious institutions across the UK.
"Funding is available for protective measures," the minister stated, adding: "It will be necessary to examine what additional measures we can implement to deal with rising antisemitism."
Local authorities said they were providing help to loved ones of the two victims.
"Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragedy at this incredibly difficult period," the lead investigator declared.
He confirmed that designated family representatives were in communication with families and would continue to support them through the investigative procedures.
"While protocols must be followed which require adherence, we commit to being mindful of religious traditions and needs and to making certain that the deceased and their relatives' requests are honored," he added, noting that the two men were from the local area.
Autopsies are being conducted on the following day, as confirmed by official sources.