Manchester synagogue attack suspect named
Police say Jihad Al-Shamie was a British citizen of Syrian decent
Police have named the man believed to be responsible for a terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue that left two men dead and three others seriously injured.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed the suspect is 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian descent.
He was shot dead by firearms officers at the scene of the attack, outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, this morning. Formal identification is yet to take place.
A suspicious device worn by Al-Shamie during the incident was assessed by bomb disposal experts and ruled non-viable. Officers also confirmed there are no records of any previous Prevent referrals relating to him.
Three other people have been arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences – two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s. Searches remain ongoing at linked addresses in Crumpsall and Prestwich.
Two men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Three others are being treated in hospital with serious injuries – one suffered a stab wound, another was hit by the attacker’s vehicle, and a third sustained injuries believed to have occurred as police stopped the suspect.
A GMP spokesperson said: “We know today’s horrifying attack, on the Jewish community’s holiest day, will have caused significant shock and fear throughout all of our communities.
“We are grateful to the member of the public whose quick response to what they witnessed allowed our swift action, and as a result the offender was prevented from entering the synagogue.
“We remain in direct contact with all synagogues across Greater Manchester to provide reassurance and this will continue for as long as needed.”