Background on the Incident
On Thursday, October 2nd, a tragic attack took place outside a synagogue in Manchester, England. The assault occurred during the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, a time when the synagogue is particularly busy with worshippers. The incident left two individuals dead and three others critically injured.
The Synagogue and Its Significance
The synagogue targeted in this attack, Beth Shalom Synagogue, is located in the Manchester suburb of Gorsline. It is a vibrant and active place of worship for the local Jewish community, known for its warm atmosphere and strong sense of belonging. The synagogue’s prominence in the community makes this attack a deeply concerning event for Jewish residents of Manchester and beyond.
The Attack and Its Impact
According to Greater Manchester Police, the attack unfolded as worshippers were arriving for Yom Kippur services. A lone assailant, wielding a knife, approached the synagogue and began attacking people outside. The assailant was quickly apprehended by bystanders and subsequently arrested by the police.
The victims have been identified as Hareet Singh Nijar, a 71-year-old man, and Ellen Rosenstein, a 64-year-old woman. Both were well-known members of the Jewish community in Manchester. The three individuals who sustained serious injuries are receiving medical attention, though their identities have not been disclosed to protect their privacy.
Community Response and Support
Following the attack, the Jewish community in Manchester and across the UK has rallied together to offer support for those affected. Local leaders, including the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregation, Ephraim Mirvis, condemned the attack and expressed their solidarity with the victims’ families. The broader Manchester community has also shown its support through various initiatives, such as vigils and fundraising efforts.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was attacked? The victims were worshippers arriving for Yom Kippur services at the Beth Shalom Synagogue in Manchester.
- Who are the victims? Hareet Singh Nijar, a 71-year-old man, and Ellen Rosenstein, a 64-year-old woman, were killed in the attack. Their identities have been publicly disclosed.
- How many people were injured? Three individuals sustained serious injuries during the attack.
- What is Yom Kippur? Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, is the most sacred holiday in Judaism. It marks the culmination of the 10-day period of repentance known as the Ten Days of Repentance and is observed with fasting, prayer, and reflection.
- What is the status of the investigation? Greater Manchester Police has taken the assailant into custody, and the investigation is ongoing to determine the motive behind this attack.
