Fire investigation teams remained at the scene on Saturday after a blaze broke out at the Satmar V'Yoel Moshe synagogue located on Northumberland Street, Salford. Firefighters had left the site following 14 hours of firefighting, and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) confirmed this morning (February 1) an investigation was underway to determine the cause of the fire.
The incident unfolded rapidly on Friday evening, shortly after 5 PM, when bright orange flames and thick smoke erupted from the upper floors of the synagogue as members of the Jewish community gathered for Friday night Sabbath services.
Emergency services were immediately dispatched, including six fire engines from stations across Greater Manchester, responding to reports of what soon proved to be a significant fire. Eyewitnesses reported seeing enormous plumes of smoke billowing from the synagogue, visible for miles.
According to GMFRS, firefighters quickly arrived on the scene equipped with breathing apparatus and used hose reels to combat the outbreak. Fortunately, by around 7:30 PM, the blaze was under control, and crews were able to confirm the fire was extinguished, but they remained on site to address any hot spots and oversee safety protocols.
Reports indicate the fire started within the synagogue's upper office area and is believed to have originated from electrical sources. "Our heart and soul is inthat building," expressed synagogue representatives, articulately conveying the emotional toll the incident has taken on the community. Damage assessments revealed extensive impact to the roof and significant parts of the building.
Nachman, identified as part of the synagogue's management, recounted the harrowing moment the fire broke out. He stated, "It could have been even more dangerous. There could have been over 200 people inside if it had started just later." Members of the community played a heroic role during the alarming event; some individuals present noticed the smoke and quickly alerted those inside, enabling safer evacuation measures.
Greater Manchester Police assisted fire crews by cordoning off the surrounding roads as firefighters tackled the fire, ensuring the safety of residents and onlookers. Although firefighters eventually managed to extinguish the fire, the road remained closed as investigations began.
Members of the community gathered outside the synagogue, visibly shaken by the extensive damage to their place of worship. Emotional outpourings were evident, with many expressing disbelief at the incident, just as the Jewish community was preparing to enter Shabbat, which marks one of their holiest rituals.
The fire serves as a distressing reminder of the vulnerability of cherished places amid unforeseen accidents. Local residents and community leaders expressed their concerns over the loss felt within their neighborhood and the significance of the synagogue at the heart of their communal life.
A spokesperson from GMFRS held a press briefing early Saturday, stating, "Six fire engines from Manchester Central, Blackley, Phillips Park, Salford, and Broughton fire stations were called to respond to the fire. We arrived quickly and, through diligent efforts, brought the situation under control." Fire investigation teams remained at the scene to ascertain the cause and extent of the damage.
Despite the devastating event, community leaders spoke of resilience, stating they would rebuild. Precautions will also be taken to prevent such occurrences from happening again. The fire serves not only as a loss but as a call for stronger safety advocacy within communal religious sites.
Though Friday night Sabbath brings peace and tranquility, this recent fire incident has thrown the community of Salford, particularly those affiliated with the synagogue, directly and painfully off balance. Initial investigations are taking place as the extent of the damage becomes clearer, but as manifested, the spirit of the community remains unwavering—the hope to revive what has been lost.