LONDON -- In a tragic turn of events, the Greater Manchester Police revealed on Friday that two victims of the Manchester synagogue attack may have sustained gunshot wounds from police officers attempting to subdue the assailant. One of the victims tragically succumbed to their injuries during the attack, while the other remains hospitalized, according to police reports.
Police Chief Constable Stephen Watson stated that the Home Office Pathologist has provisionally determined that one of the deceased victims appears to have suffered from a gunshot injury. This assessment comes as part of the initial investigation into the incident, where law enforcement concluded that the victims likely received gunfire from police rather than the assailant, who was fatally shot and was not armed with any firearms.
The suspect, identified as Jihad Al-Shamie, a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent, allegedly drove his vehicle into a crowd outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue early Thursday morning. Following this, he reportedly exited the vehicle and began attacking individuals with a blade, leading authorities to classify the event as a terrorist incident.
As the situation escalated, congregants quickly barricaded themselves inside the synagogue, effectively preventing Al-Shamie from gaining entry. Police reports indicate that Al-Shamie was eventually struck and killed by gunfire from law enforcement officials on the scene.
The two victims who appear to have been struck by police gunfire were identified as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66. Daulby's family released a heartfelt statement describing him as a hero who died courageously trying to save others. They emphasized his role as a beloved brother, loving uncle, and cherished cousin, expressing their shock at the sudden loss of such a kind-hearted man. They remarked, "His final act was one of profound courage, and he will forever be remembered for his heroic act."
Meanwhile, Cravitz, who served as a security guard at the synagogue, was noted for his bravery in preventing the attacker from entering the building. His family reflected on his kindness and caring nature, stating, "Melvin would do anything to help anyone. He was so kind, caring, and always wanted to chat and get to know people." They expressed their sorrow, highlighting that he would be deeply missed by his wife, family, friends, and the wider community.
Law enforcement officials have not yet specified which of the victims were struck by gunfire. The police confirmed that the injured victim was one of three individuals receiving treatment for their injuries in local hospitals. In connection with the attack, three additional suspects—a pair of men and a woman—were taken into custody on suspicion of involvement in the commission, preparation, and instigation of acts of terrorism.
In a statement released by Al-Shamie's family, they condemned the attack, which targeted peaceful and innocent civilians. They expressed their deep shock and sorrow over the events, stating, "We fully distance ourselves from this attack and express our heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time."
