In a devastating turn of events, a individuals killed at the Heaton Park synagogue assault is believed to have been fatally wounded by armed police officers.
Police Announcement Reveals Firearm Injury
The senior officer from the local force announced that a forensic expert has provisionally determined the man succumbed to a gunshot wound.
“We sought guidance overnight from forensic specialists ahead of detailed autopsies scheduled for later today. The expert indicated that he has provisionally determined a victim likely sustained a injury consistent with a firearm wound.”
Attacker Information
The assailant, Jihad al-Shamie, did not have a gun, and the only shots fired came from the police officers on site.
Authorities think the victim was among those behind the synagogue door seeking to prevent the assailant from gaining entry.
Consequences of Police Action
“Thus, it appears pending additional analysis, the wound was unfortunately incurred as a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the urgently required action employed by our personnel to bring this vicious attack to an end.”
Names Released
Both individuals who lost their lives at Heaton Park synagogue located in Manchester earlier this week had been named as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.
The men lost their lives when a vehicle was employed to ram into the grounds of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue, then stabbed worshippers in a six-minute rampage that ended only when armed officers shot at him twice, ending his life at the door of the temple.
Further Harm
Three others sustained major injuries in the attack on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Watson said, “Medical professionals have informed us that one of the three victims now hospitalized has also suffered a firearm injury, which is mercifully not life threatening. Officials think the two individuals were close together at the entrance, as worshippers acted bravely to prevent the attacker from getting inside.”
Ongoing Assistance
“We extend our condolences are directed toward the affected relatives, and the wider community, touched by these events across Greater Manchester and beyond. Specialist officers are providing support and care for everyone involved, including the courageous emergency teams.”
Attacker Profile
Police named the perpetrator as Shamie, 35, a UK national of Syrian descent.
Greater Manchester police reported that three other people – two male suspects and an older female – had been detained “for alleged commission, preparation and instigation of terrorist activities”.
Additional information forthcoming ...
