Manchester’s Jewish community is still reeling after a deadly terror attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue on October 2, 2025, that left two people dead and several others wounded. The aftermath has been marked by a series of arrests, emotional public statements, and ongoing questions about the motivations behind the violence and the effectiveness of the security response.
According to BBC, the attack unfolded as worshippers gathered for Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar. Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, drove his car into a group of people at the synagogue gates, then exited the vehicle and began stabbing attendees with a knife. He wore what appeared to be a fake suicide belt, heightening the chaos and panic as he attempted to storm the synagogue. Armed police responded within minutes, fatally shooting Al-Shamie as he tried to force his way inside.
The violence claimed the lives of Melvin Cravitz, 66, a father of three and devoted member of the local community, and Adrian Daulby, 53. Daulby, described by his family as “a hero and down to earth man whose final act was to save others,” is believed to have been accidentally shot by police while bravely blocking the synagogue doors to prevent Al-Shamie from continuing his rampage, as reported by Daily Mail. Another man, Yoni Finlay, was also wounded by police gunfire during the response and is currently recovering after major surgery. His teenage son recounted, “He was shot accidentally by a bullet that went through the door.”
In the immediate aftermath, Counter Terrorism Policing North West arrested six individuals on suspicion of involvement or knowledge of the attack. Two were released within days, while four others were held for further questioning. By October 8, 2025, all had been released without charge, though police emphasized that the investigation was far from over. The next day, a 30-year-old man—previously arrested and released—was re-arrested at Manchester Airport on suspicion of failing to disclose information that could have prevented the attack, contrary to Section 38B of the Terrorism Act 2000. This legislation requires individuals to promptly report any information that might materially assist in preventing terrorism. He was subsequently released on bail with conditions, and police reiterated that they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public.
As the community gathered for vigils and moments of silence to mark one week since the tragedy, new details continued to emerge. According to Sky News, it was revealed that during his rampage, Al-Shamie made a 999 emergency call, pledging allegiance to the so-called Islamic State. Despite this, both police and MI5 have been unable to establish any direct links between Al-Shamie and any organized terror group. Investigators instead believe he acted alone, radicalized by extremist material he accessed online. At the time of the attack, Al-Shamie was reportedly on police bail for an unrelated rape accusation.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has reviewed the actions of the officers who responded to the attack. The watchdog found no evidence of misconduct in the use of firearms, but the officers involved are being treated as witnesses while the case remains under review. “Several other officers involved in the incident… are also witnesses to our independent investigation,” the IOPC stated, noting that the review would continue as new information comes to light.
The attack has left deep scars on the Manchester Jewish community, but also inspired remarkable displays of solidarity. On October 9, as reported by BBC and Daily Mail, members of the congregation and supporters from across the city stood in silence outside the synagogue, honoring the victims and reaffirming their commitment to unity in the face of hatred. The father of the attacker, Faraj al-Shamie, issued a public statement on behalf of the Al-Shamie family, expressing both sorrow and gratitude: “The recent tragic act of terror has brought deep pain – to our family and to the families of the victims. Our hearts and prayers are with them. No one should ever experience such suffering again. We must all stand together – united, vigilant, and compassionate – to prevent such acts and protect the peace of our communities.” He also thanked the police “who continue to work tirelessly to ensure safety, justice, and peace for everyone.”
The families of the victims, meanwhile, have been left to grapple with their loss. The Daulby family’s tribute captured the complex emotions of grief and pride: “His final act was one of profound courage and he will forever be remembered for his heroic act on Thursday 2 October 2025.” Cravitz’s family and friends have also spoken of his dedication to his faith and community, emphasizing the tragedy of a life cut short while trying to protect others.
While the investigation presses on, authorities have faced difficult questions about how Al-Shamie managed to carry out the attack despite being on police bail and under scrutiny for unrelated allegations. The lack of established links to organized terror groups has also fueled broader debates about the challenges of identifying and preventing so-called “lone wolf” attacks, especially when radicalization occurs online and in isolation. The case has underscored the limits of traditional counter-terrorism models and the need for vigilance not just from law enforcement, but from communities themselves.
For Manchester’s Jewish community, the trauma of October 2 will not soon fade. Yet the outpouring of support from neighbors, faith leaders, and officials has been a testament to the city’s resilience. As the investigation continues and the legal process unfolds, many are determined that the memory of Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby will serve as a reminder of both the dangers of extremism and the enduring power of courage and unity in the face of adversity.
