🔗 Share this article

Two men losing their lives in an assault on a religious center in Manchester have been named by authorities as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby, and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.

Three additional individuals continue receiving medical care with serious injuries after the attacker used an automobile into people before stabbing others on the morning of the incident.

The violent incident, which law enforcement has confirmed was a terrorist incident, came on Yom Kippur, the most important observance in the Jewish faith.

The attacker, who was fatally shot at the site, was a 35-year-old UK national of Syrian background who was not previously identified to terrorism investigators, according to official statements.

Public Reaction

"We are devastated," the UK's Chief Rabbi commented.

In an interview with a national radio program, he remarked: "The tragic incident was a devastating impact to us, something which actually we were fearing might happen because of the preceding circumstances."

The attack was not only "a very dark time" for Jews in Britain "but for everyone in our country," he added.

Security Measures

"Our responsibility is to make sure our Jewish population, our people can conduct their daily activities with safety and security," a senior government official stated.

"It is unacceptable that Jewish people in our country to believe they must live a reduced Jewish identity, that they cannot go about their business and practice their faith and go to their communal institutions in without fear," she added.

The attacker was not recognized to terrorism investigators, she stated to news organizations, and it was "too early" to say if there was a terror network behind the attack.

Ongoing Probe

The criminal probe was "progressing rapidly" and there was an increased police presence at Jewish worship centers across the UK.

"Authorities allocate protective measures," the official said, adding: "It will be necessary to examine what more we can do to combat increasing anti-Jewish sentiment."

Law enforcement officials announced they were supporting the families of the two victims.

"Sincere condolences are with those affected by this tragedy at this extremely hard time," a senior police officer declared.

He said that specialized support personnel were in communication with families and would continue to support them through the official inquiries.

"Whilst there are processes which require adherence, we pledge to remain sensitive of cultural preferences and needs and to making certain that the victims and their loved ones' wishes are honored," he added, mentioning that the deceased individuals were from Crumpsall.

Medical examinations are taking place on the next day, according to official sources.