"No misconduct apparent" by police in Manchester Synagogue terror attack, says Chief Constable

The Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police (GMP) says his officers have been cleared of misconduct following last week’s terror attack outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue.

The attack, which happened on Thursday 2nd October, left two members of the Jewish community injured - one fatally - after armed officers opened fire to bring the violent assault under control.

The attacker, Jihad Al-Shamie, was subsequently shot dead at the scene.

In addition, 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz, a synagogue security guard, was killed by the perpetrator while trying to prevent him from entering the building.

In a statement released today, GMP Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson responded to the latest update from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)’s investigation:

“I welcome this continued support and acknowledge the fact that the IOPC have today confirmed their finding that no misconduct is apparent in the actions required of our officers in bringing this dreadful attack to an end,” Watson said. “Our thoughts will always be with the families and loved ones of those directly affected by this tragedy together with the wider community across Greater Manchester and beyond.”

The IOPC confirmed that the three officers who discharged their weapons are being treated as witnesses in the investigation. Several other officers involved are also considered witnesses, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The incident resulted in the death of Adrian Daulby, a member of the congregation, and injury to another man who remains in hospital. Both were struck by police gunfire during the six-minute confrontation. Ballistics analysis has confirmed the injuries were caused by police-issued firearms, though further forensic work is underway to determine the exact sequence of events.

IOPC Director Emily Barry described the attack as a “tragic incident in which innocent people lost their lives, and others were seriously injured,” and emphasized the importance of a thorough and transparent investigation.

The IOPC is also reviewing GMP’s prior contact with Al-Shamie, who had been on bail following a rape allegation made in December 2024. GMP has requested that this aspect be included in the IOPC’s ongoing review, citing previous reports of harassment involving the suspect.

Sir Stephen Watson reaffirmed GMP’s commitment to protecting all faith communities across Greater Manchester, stating that their “significant presence and determination to protect everyone… will continue unabated.”

The IOPC investigation is mandatory in cases involving police use of lethal force and will continue to examine whether officers’ actions contributed to the death or injury of civilians during the incident.

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