Vigil to be held in Manchester for victims of Crumpsall synagogue attack

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Crumpsall synagogue vigil Manchester terrorist attack

A vigil is set to be held in solidarity with the local Jewish community and those affected by the horrific attack in Greater Manchester on Thursday.

Mancunians, Brits and people all over the world are continuing to pay tribute and offer words of kindness during another dark day for the city region, as the incident that took place at a synagogue in Crumpsall has now been confirmed as an act of terrorism.

Two of the five people injured during the incident have tragically passed away, with their names having now been revealed to the public.

Informing residents from around the ten boroughs of the vigil plans, those nearby, as well as those in and around central Manchester, are now being welcomed to pay their respects to the deceased and those who remain injured in hospital.

Writing on social media yesterday, Mayor Andy Burnham simply described the ordeal as a “vile attack on our Jewish community on its holiest day.”

He went on to state, “We condemn whoever is responsible and will do everything within our power to keep people safe.”

As for the person responsible, the suspect behind the attack has now been identified as 35-year-old Jihad Al-Shamie, who was a registered British citizen of Syrian descent.

Burnham signed off by adding: “We stand with GM’s Jewish community at this time and will work through the day to support them.”

Regarding the details of the vigil, the statement reads: “Greater Manchester stands together in solidarity with our Jewish community following the horrific incident at Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue”. Flowers, wreaths, as well as messages of love and support are already being in the area.

It continues: “A vigil will be held today at 3pm (Friday, 3 October) at the junction of Middleton Road and Crumpsall Lane (M8 5DS).”

While the Greater Mancunian Jewish community is still hurting as more details emerge from the ongoing investigation, the city and beyond are already uniting as they always do in the face of adversity.

Two victims of the Crumpsall synagogue attack were accidentally shot by police, according to GMP

Members of the Manchester Jewish Museum, Crumpsall’s neighbouring MJCC, and the wider Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester and the surrounding area are all expected to be in attendance, as well as notable political figures.

As reiterated by the Mayor’s office: “This is a space for reflection, support and unity. All are welcome to join as we honour those affected and show that hate has no place in our city region.”

For anyone considering going along to pay their respects and offer their support, please look out for each other, remain vigilant and stay safe.

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Featured Images — Tim Umphreys (via Unsplash)/Facebook/Mayor for Greater Manchester (via X)