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In a tragic development, one of the victims killed at the Heaton Park synagogue assault is believed to have been shot dead by armed police officers.

Official Statement Confirms Gunshot Wound

The chief constable of Greater Manchester Police announced that the Home Office pathologist has provisionally determined the man died of a gunshot wound.

“We sought guidance overnight from forensic specialists ahead of detailed autopsies set to occur this afternoon. The expert indicated that preliminary findings show a victim would appear to have suffered a injury matching a gunshot injury.”

Attacker Information

The assailant, a 35-year-old individual, did not have a firearm, and the only shots fired were by authorized firearms personnel on site.

It is believed the deceased was among those positioned at the entrance trying to stop the attacker from gaining entry.

Consequences of Police Action

“It follows therefore pending additional analysis, this injury may sadly have been sustained as a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the necessary rapid response taken by our personnel to bring this vicious attack to an end.”

Victims Identified

The two victims who lost their lives during the synagogue incident in north Manchester earlier this week were identified as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby and Melvin Cravitz, 66 years old.

These individuals lost their lives when a vehicle was employed to crash through the grounds of the local Jewish place of worship, then stabbed worshippers in a six-minute rampage that concluded after police with firearms fired upon him, killing him near the synagogue entrance.

Further Harm

Three others sustained major injuries in the violent act on the Day of Atonement, the holiest day in the Jewish year.

Watson said, “We have also been advised that one of the three victims currently receiving treatment has also suffered a firearm injury, which is mercifully not life threatening. It is believed both victims were close together at the entrance, as attendees showed courage to stop the assailant from gaining entry.”

Community Support

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the affected relatives, and the wider community, touched by this incident in the region and elsewhere. Trained personnel are offering aid and assistance for everyone involved, including the courageous emergency teams.”

Suspect Background

Police named the attacker as the individual, 35, a British citizen of Syrian descent.

Local law enforcement reported that three other people – two male suspects and a woman in her 60s – had been arrested “on suspicion of involvement in planning of terrorist activities”.

Additional information forthcoming ...