Manchester Jewish House of Worship Attack Fatalities Revealed

Two individuals losing their lives in an attack on a synagogue in Manchester have been named by police as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66.

Three additional individuals remain in hospital with serious injuries after Jihad Al-Shamie drove a vehicle into pedestrians before attacking with a knife on Thursday.

The attack, which police have said was a act of terrorism, took place during Judaism's holiest day, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish tradition.

The attacker, who was killed by police at the site, was a 35-year-old UK national of Syrian descent who was not previously known to counter terrorism police, as stated by security officials.

Official Statements

"Our hearts are broken," the UK's Chief Rabbi commented.

During a conversation on a prominent media outlet, he stated: "Yesterday's events was a terrible shock to us, something which actually we were fearing might happen because of the build up."

The attack was not only "a profoundly troubling moment" for Jews in Britain "but for the entire nation," he continued.

Government Response

"The government's duty is to make sure our Jewish citizens, our people can live their lives with safety and security," the Home Secretary declared.

"It is unacceptable that the Jewish community in our country to feel compelled to live a smaller Jewish life, that they cannot pursue their activities and follow their beliefs and attend their religious centers in freedom," she added.

The perpetrator was not recognized to counter-terrorism police, she informed news organizations, and it was "not yet possible" to say if there was a organized group behind the attack.

Police Inquiry

The criminal probe was "progressing rapidly" and there was an additional law enforcement visibility at synagogues across the UK.

"The government does provide protective measures," the official commented, adding: "We must evaluate what further actions we can take to address growing religious prejudice."

Law enforcement officials announced they were assisting the relatives of the two men killed.

"Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragedy at this incredibly difficult period," a senior police officer stated.

He indicated that trained family liaison officers were in communication with families and would continue to support them through the coronial process.

"Although procedures exist which need compliance, we promise to be considerate of religious traditions and needs and to making certain that these men and their families' preferences are honored," he said, stating that the both victims were from the Manchester community.

Post-mortems are taking place on the following day, as confirmed by government statements.