Following a stabbing incident at a synagogue in Manchester, hospitals in the area have been placed on lockdown. The tragic event resulted in the death of two individuals, including the suspected attacker who was shot by the police. Heaton Park synagogue is cordoned off, with a significant presence of officers and paramedics at the scene. During the attack, a car was driven towards members of the public.
As a precautionary measure, Salford Royal, Fairfield General, Rochdale Infirmary, and the Royal Oldham hospitals are inaccessible to the public. The Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, responsible for these hospitals, issued an internal communication declaring a major incident in Greater Manchester and enforcing a lockdown across their sites. Patients within the medical facilities are restricted from entering or leaving.
The incident occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, adding to the gravity of the situation. Eyewitnesses inside Fairfield General reported heightened security measures with staff manning the doors and restricting access. Authorities have labeled the incident as PLATO, indicating a potential terrorism link that is yet to be confirmed.
Approximately an hour after the incident, bomb squad personnel were seen at the scene. The local Jewish community has been deeply affected by the attack, with emotional scenes of individuals consoling each other near the synagogue.
A statement from the Manchester Evening News highlighted the lockdown status of all hospital sites in response to the declared major incident. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed shock over the attack and announced plans to convene an emergency Cobra meeting upon his return to London. Additional police resources will be deployed to safeguard synagogues nationwide.
In solidarity, King Charles issued a statement expressing condolences and appreciation for the swift actions of emergency services. Greater Manchester Police reassured the Jewish community in Crumpsall of ongoing support and vigilance. The public is encouraged to follow updates on this developing story through various news platforms.
