Manchester Synagogue Incident: A Casualty Was Likely Shot by Police
In a tragic development, one of the individuals killed at the Heaton Park synagogue attack is believed to have been fatally wounded by armed police officers.
Police Announcement Confirms Firearm Injury
The chief constable from the local force announced that a forensic expert has provisionally determined the victim died of a bullet injury.
“We sought guidance overnight from the Home Office pathologist ahead of detailed autopsies set to occur later today. The Home Office pathologist has advised that preliminary findings show one of the deceased victims would appear to have suffered a wound consistent with a gunshot injury.”
Attacker Information
The assailant, a 35-year-old individual, was not carrying a gun, and all discharged rounds came from authorized firearms personnel on site.
It is believed the victim was part of the group behind the synagogue door seeking to prevent the assailant from gaining entry.
Outcome of Intervention
“It follows therefore that subject to further forensic examination, this injury may sadly have been sustained as a unintended and heartbreaking result of the necessary rapid response taken by our personnel to halt this brutal assault.”
Names Released
The two victims killed in the attack at Heaton Park synagogue located in Manchester earlier this week were identified as Adrian Daulby, aged 53 and Melvin Cravitz, 66 years old.
These individuals were killed when a car was used to crash through the grounds of the local Jewish place of worship, before the attacker targeted attendees in a brief violent spree that concluded after armed officers fired upon him, ending his life near the synagogue entrance.
Further Harm
Three more people sustained major injuries in the attack on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish year.
Watson said, “We have also been advised that one of the three victims currently receiving treatment has also suffered a gunshot wound, which is fortunately non-fatal. Officials think both victims were near each other behind the synagogue door, as attendees showed courage to prevent the attacker from getting inside.”
Ongoing Assistance
“We extend our condolences remain with all of the families, and broader public, touched by these events in the region and elsewhere. Trained personnel are providing support and care for everyone involved, including the courageous emergency teams.”
Suspect Background
Police named the perpetrator as the individual, 35, a UK national of Syrian origin.
Local law enforcement reported that three other people – two men in their 30s and an older female – had been arrested “on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism”.
Additional information forthcoming ...
