Manchester synagogue attack police issue major update on injured

Police have issued an update on people injured in the car attack and stabbing at a synagogue in Manchester.

Two people were killed in the horrific incident and police have now said another four are in hospital. "Four further people remain in hospital, having suffered a variety of serious injuries and their treatment is ongoing and our thoughts remain with them at this time," Greater Manchester Police said in a statement.

The attack at a synagogue in Manchester this morning saw armed policeshoot dead the suspect after a car was driven at pedestrians and a person was stabbed on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed two people had been killed followingthe attack outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, on Middleton Road in Crumpsall.

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In a statement this afternoon Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson said four people were in hospital following the attack, he also confirmed the incident had officially been declared an act of terror. He also said officers believed they knew the identity of the offender, adding that two other individuals had been arrested in connection with the attack and that "enquiries are ongoing".

Speaking about the victims of the attack, Sir Stephen said: "We can confirm that two members of our Jewish community have sadly died as a result of this attack. Following a rapid response, armed officers from Greater Manchester Police intercepted the offender and he was fatally shot by officers, within seven minutes of the initial call.

"Four further people remain in hospital, having suffered a variety of serious injuries and their treatment is ongoing and our thoughts remain with them at this time."

Ha added: "Enquiries are moving at pace, and very visible and proactive policing activity is ongoing across Greater Manchester and beyond. Updates will be provided as soon as possible. Our priority is to keep the public safe."

The area around the synagogue was swamped by dozens of police vehicles, along with fire and ambulance crews – while the force helicopter hovered overhead shortly after the incident outside Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, on Middleton Road in Crumpsall.

A bomb disposal unit was sent to the scene after footage shared on social media appeared to show members of the public shouting to firearms officers that the suspect had a bomb strapped to him.

The man who was killed after shots were fired by armed police at 9.38am was pictured wearing what appeared to be a 'bomb belt'.