Witness Recounts Instant When 'Evil Attacker' Struck Manchester Jewish House of Worship
A person assisting in barricading a Jewish temple in northern Manchester has shared how a violent attack took place, leading to the deaths of two British Jews.
That Thursday, Alan Levy was inside the local synagogue when a perpetrator crashed into and stabbed attendees coming together for a ceremony to commemorate the holy day.
He noted that the 'monster' attacker attempted to break down the entrances of the building, and he recalled securing the building with additional worshippers.
The victims, in their 50s and 60s were killed in the attack on that day, while several more were hurt while attempting to defend worshippers.
Witness Account of the Attack
The individual, who serves as a Chair of the Trustees at the temple, recounted reinforcing the entrances and said that the attacker used blades and outdoor items to force his way inside.
I observed a terrifying individual shoulder charge against the entrance, attempting to break them open holding a sharp weapon," he shared with reporters.
"The only thing that could be discerned he uttered 'this is what you're going to get for killing our children'.
Just those words were spoken. We stood inside the building and we were saying 'we are not letting this man in'.
He appeared as a crazed, violent individual."
Ceremony Held for Deceased
These remarks coincided with many individuals attended the funeral service for one of the victims.
Close kin, attendees from the synagogue group as well as the community rabbi, and participants of the Jewish population came together in the local area to pay their respects.
Mourners crowded the burial ground, with a number standing outdoors the prayer hall in the downpour, listening to the service and eulogy over speakers.
Through a statement issued on the following day, the victim's loved ones expressed that he was always willing to assist.
Authorities Inquiry and Apprehensions
Law enforcement indicated that one victim appeared to have been struck by police gunfire as they shot the attacker following the alarm was raised.
The victim, who was hailed by his relatives as a "courageous person", was participating in a ceremony at the house of worship when the incident occurred.
He remained a cherished sibling, loving uncle to his several nieces and a nephew and a dear extended family member," his family stated.
His loved ones are shocked by the unexpected loss of a kind and humble individual.
His last actions was one of profound courage and he remains in memory for his courageous effort."
Several arrests have been made in regarding the incident, and authorities indicated that a group were under arrest on Sunday morning.
Each of them were arrested on suspicion of involvement in terrorist acts.
Those arrested consist of a pair of males, of specific ages and detained in the local area; a older woman apprehended in the area; and a middle-aged female arrested in Farnworth.
An 18-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man were freed with no additional charges, officials reported on the following day.
