Two men killed in a violent incident on a religious center in Manchester have been identified by authorities as Adrian Daulby, aged 53, and Melvin Cravitz, aged 66.
Three others remain in hospital with severe trauma after the assailant used an automobile into people before using a bladed weapon on the morning of the incident.
The violent incident, which law enforcement has confirmed was a terrorist incident, took place during Judaism's holiest day, the holiest day in the Jewish religious calendar.
The attacker, who was shot dead at the scene, was a 35-year-old UK national of Syrian heritage who was not previously known to counter terrorism police, per government sources.
Community Response
"Right now our hearts are shattered," the UK's Chief Rabbi stated.
In an interview with a prominent media outlet, he remarked: "The tragic incident was an awful blow to us, something which actually we were fearing might happen because of the preceding circumstances."
The attack was not only "a profoundly troubling moment" for the British Jewish community "but for all of our society," he added.
Official Reaction
"Our obligation is to ensure our Jewish citizens, our citizens can conduct their daily activities with security and assurance," a cabinet minister declared.
"I do not want Jewish citizens in our country to feel compelled to live a limited religious practice, that they cannot conduct their affairs and practice their faith and attend their religious centers in without fear," she added.
The assailant was not known to terrorism investigators, she informed broadcasters, and it was "too early" to say if there was a organized group behind the attack.
Ongoing Probe
The criminal probe was "continuing at pace" and there was an additional law enforcement visibility at Jewish worship centers across the UK.
"The government does provide protective measures," the minister stated, adding: "I think we will have to consider what further actions we can take to combat rising antisemitism."
Law enforcement officials said they were supporting the families of the two deceased individuals.
"Our heartfelt condolences are with Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz's loved ones at this extremely hard time," law enforcement leadership expressed.
He indicated that specialized support personnel were in contact with them and would provide ongoing help through the official inquiries.
"While protocols must be followed which need compliance, we commit to being mindful of religious traditions and concerns and to ensuring that the victims and their loved ones' wishes are followed," he added, mentioning that the deceased individuals were from the Manchester community.
Autopsies are scheduled on the following day, according to official sources.
