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Manchester synagogue attacker Jihad Al-Shamie was on bail for rape when he killed two worshippers during Yom Kippur. Police shot him dead but one victim was accidentally killed by officers.
Manchester Synagogue Terror Attack: Attacker Was Free on Bail
The man who carried out a deadly terrorist attack on a Manchester synagogue during Yom Kippur services was on police bail for an alleged rape at the time of the assault, authorities have confirmed. Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent, drove his car into worshippers and went on a stabbing rampage outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation synagogue on October 2, 2025.
Attack Details and Police Response
The attack occurred at approximately 9:31 AM BST when Al-Shamie drove his vehicle into pedestrians gathered outside the synagogue for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. He then emerged from the car wielding a knife and began stabbing worshippers. Armed police officers responded within seven minutes and shot the attacker dead at 9:38 AM, preventing him from entering the synagogue building.
Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson stated: 'It is currently believed that the suspect was not in possession of a firearm and the only shots fired were from GMP's authorised firearms officers as they worked to prevent the offender from entering the synagogue and causing further harm to our Jewish community.'
Victims and Tragic Consequences
The attack claimed the lives of two innocent men: Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66. In a devastating revelation, police confirmed that Daulby was likely accidentally shot by responding officers while he was heroically holding the synagogue doors shut to prevent the attacker from entering.
Daulby's family described him as 'a gentle and innocent soul who died in an act of courage to save others.' Cravitz, who served as a synagogue security guard, was remembered by his family as 'a kind, caring person who dedicated his life to protecting his community.'
Investigation and Arrests
Counter Terrorism Policing revealed that Al-Shamie had been arrested earlier this year on suspicion of rape and was released on bail pending further investigation. He was not previously known to counter-terrorism authorities, though investigators now believe he 'may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology.'
Six people have been arrested in connection with the attack, including five men aged between 18 and 50 and a woman in her 60s. All are suspected of terrorism offenses related to encouraging or preparing acts of terror.
Community Impact and Security Response
The attack has sent shockwaves through Britain's Jewish community, coming amid heightened concerns about rising antisemitism. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned what he called a 'vile terrorist attack' targeting Jews specifically.
Rabbi Daniel Walker, who was leading services at the time, was praised for his quick actions in locking congregants inside the synagogue and moving them to safety. He described the attack as 'a desecration that has changed us all forever.'
Greater Manchester Police has deployed additional officers to synagogues across the region, while the Community Security Trust has urged Jewish communities to remain vigilant. The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched an investigation into the police shooting that resulted in Daulby's death.
