Two men losing their lives in an attack on a religious center in Manchester have been named by law enforcement as Adrian Daulby, 53, and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.
Three additional individuals continue receiving medical care with severe trauma after the assailant rammed a car into pedestrians before attacking with a knife on the morning of the incident.
The attack, 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 killed by police at the location, was a thirty-five-year-old UK national of Syrian descent who was not previously known to counter terrorism police, per government sources.
Community Response
"Our hearts are broken," the nation's top rabbinical authority commented.
In an interview with a national radio program, he remarked: "The tragic incident was a devastating impact to us, something which we had apprehensions regarding might happen because of the preceding circumstances."
The attack was not only "a very dark time" for the British Jewish community "but for the entire nation," he continued.
Government Response
"Our obligation is to make sure our Jewish citizens, our residents can live their lives with safety and security," a senior government official declared.
"We cannot allow Jewish citizens in our country to believe they must live a limited religious practice, that they cannot pursue their activities and follow their beliefs and attend their religious centers in freedom," she continued.
The attacker was not identified to counter-terrorism police, she informed news organizations, and it was "premature" to say if there was a organized group behind the attack.
Ongoing Probe
The police investigation was "progressing rapidly" and there was an increased police presence at Jewish worship centers across the UK.
"The government does provide safety resources," the representative stated, adding: "I think we will have to consider what more we can do to address rising antisemitism."
Law enforcement officials announced they were providing help to loved ones of the two deceased individuals.
"Sincere condolences are with Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz's loved ones at this incredibly difficult period," the lead investigator declared.
He confirmed that trained family liaison officers were in contact with them and would maintain assistance through the coronial process.
"Whilst there are processes which require adherence, we commit to being mindful of religious traditions and concerns and to making certain that these men and their relatives' requests are respected," he said, stating that the both victims were from Crumpsall.
Medical examinations are scheduled on the next day, per government statements.
