Eyewitness Describes Moment When 'Evil Attacker' Struck Northern Manchester Synagogue
A man involved in barricading a house of prayer in northern Manchester has recounted how a violent assault unfolded, resulting in the loss of two community members.
Early Thursday, the survivor was present in the worship center when the assailant crashed into and assaulted members assembling for a observance to mark the holy day.
The witness noted that the 'evil' attacker tried to force open the entryways of the synagogue, and he described securing the building with fellow congregation members.
Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66 died in the violence on that day, while additional persons were injured while attempting to defend congregants.
Eyewitness Account of the Attack
He, who acts as a key figure at the synagogue, described holding the doors and noted that the perpetrator wielded blades and plant pots to force his way inside.
I observed a terrifying individual forcefully push the main doors, seeking to force them open while armed with a blade," he shared with reporters.
"The only thing that was audible was him saying 'this is what you're going to get for killing our children'.
"That's the only thing he expressed. We remained within the synagogue and we were saying 'we are not letting this man in'.
He acted like an insane and malevolent attacker."
Memorial Service Conducted for Individual
These remarks coincided with a large gathering attended the funeral service for one of the victims.
Close kin, attendees from the synagogue group along with a religious leader, and individuals of the Jewish population gathered in Pendlebury, Salford to show support.
Those present occupied the gravesite, with a number waiting outside the prayer hall in the inclement weather, following the service and eulogy over speakers.
In a message released on the following day, the victim's loved ones stated that he had a helpful nature.
Authorities Inquiry and Apprehensions
Local authorities reported that one victim appeared to have been hit by officer shots as they neutralized the perpetrator soon after the incident was reported.
The victim, who was hailed by his relatives as a "hero", was present at a gathering at the temple when the incident unfolded.
He remained a cherished sibling, caring relative to his several nieces and a nephew and a cherished cousin," his loved ones added.
"The family is stunned by the tragic, sudden death of a kind and humble individual.
His last actions was one of profound courage and he will forever be remembered for his heroic act."
Several arrests were conducted in connection with the attack, and police indicated that several individuals remained in custody on Sunday morning.
All four were apprehended for commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism.
Those arrested include several men, in their 30s and detained in the local area; a female in her 60s arrested in Prestwich; and a 46-year-old woman detained in another location.
An 18-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man were released with no further action, officials reported on Saturday.
