Two individuals losing their lives in an assault on a synagogue in Manchester have been named by authorities as Adrian Daulby, 53, and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.
Three others remain in hospital with critical wounds after Jihad Al-Shamie drove a vehicle into people before stabbing others on Thursday.
The assault, which law enforcement has confirmed was a act of terrorism, took place during Yom Kippur, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish religious calendar.
The attacker, who was fatally shot at the site, was a thirty-five-year-old British citizen of Syrian background who was not on record to terrorism investigators, as stated by security officials.
Community Response
"Right now our hearts are shattered," the UK's Chief Rabbi commented.
In an interview with a prominent media outlet, he said: "What transpired yesterday was a terrible shock to us, something which actually we were fearing might happen because of the escalating tensions."
The attack was not only "a profoundly troubling moment" for Jewish citizens nationwide "but for all of our society," he emphasized.
Official Reaction
"The government's duty is to make sure our Jewish citizens, our residents can go about their lives with safety and security," a senior government official announced.
"I do not want Jewish people in our country to feel like they have to live a limited religious practice, that they cannot conduct their affairs and observe their religion and go to their communal institutions in without fear," she continued.
The perpetrator was not identified to security services, she informed broadcasters, and it was "premature" to say if there was a terror network behind the attack.
Ongoing Probe
The criminal probe was "continuing at pace" and there was an additional law enforcement visibility at religious institutions across the UK.
"Funding is available for safety resources," the representative stated, adding: "I think we will have to consider what further actions we can take to combat rising antisemitism."
Greater Manchester police confirmed they were assisting the relatives of the two deceased individuals.
"Sincere condolences are with those affected by this tragedy at this profoundly challenging moment," the lead investigator expressed.
He confirmed that designated family representatives were in touch with relatives and would provide ongoing help through the investigative procedures.
"Although procedures exist which require adherence, we promise to be considerate of cultural preferences and needs and to guaranteeing that these men and their loved ones' wishes are respected," he added, mentioning that the deceased individuals were from the local area.
Autopsies are taking place on the following day, per authoritative reports.
