Manchester Synagogue Assault Fatalities Named
Two individuals fatally injured in an attack on a religious center in Manchester have been revealed by authorities as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66.
Three others remain in hospital with critical wounds after the attacker rammed a car into pedestrians before stabbing others on Thursday.
The violent incident, which police have said was a act of terrorism, occurred on Judaism's holiest day, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish faith.
The attacker, who was killed by police at the scene, was a thirty-five-year-old UK national of Syrian heritage who was not on record to counter-terrorism authorities, as stated by official statements.
Official Statements
"We are devastated," Britain's senior Jewish leader declared.
During a conversation on a prominent media outlet, he remarked: "Yesterday's events was an awful blow to us, something which we had been concerned about might happen because of the build up."
The attack was not only "a profoundly troubling moment" for Jewish citizens nationwide "but for all of our society," he emphasized.
Security Measures
"Our responsibility is to ensure our Jewish community, our people can live their lives with security and assurance," a senior government official declared.
"We cannot allow the Jewish community in our country to feel like they have to live a reduced Jewish identity, that they cannot pursue their activities and practice their faith and go to their communal institutions in liberty," she continued.
The attacker was not recognized to security services, she stated to news organizations, and it was "not yet possible" to say if there was a terrorist cell behind the attack.
Police Inquiry
The criminal probe was "progressing rapidly" and there was an enhanced security deployment at synagogues across the UK.
"Funding is available for protective measures," the official commented, adding: "We must evaluate what additional measures we can implement to address growing religious prejudice."
Local authorities announced they were supporting the families of the two deceased individuals.
"Sincere condolences are with Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz's loved ones at this incredibly difficult period," law enforcement leadership expressed.
He said that specialized support personnel were in touch with relatives and would continue to support them through the official inquiries.
"While protocols must be followed which need compliance, we pledge to remain sensitive of religious traditions and sensitivities and to making certain that the deceased and their relatives' requests are honored," he added, noting that the two men were from the Manchester community.
Autopsies are taking place on the next day, according to official sources.