London, Oct 2 (NationPress) Tragically, at least two individuals have lost their lives and numerous others have sustained injuries in a mass stabbing incident that occurred near a synagogue in Manchester, UK, on Thursday, as reported by local law enforcement.

Authorities indicated that responding officers fatally shot a third individual, who was described as a suspect. In a statement, police mentioned that the confirmation of the suspect's death is pending due to safety concerns regarding suspicious items found on him. A bomb disposal team has been dispatched to the scene, according to ABC News.

Local authorities confirmed that at least three additional individuals were injured and are in serious condition. The attack took place outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, as per law enforcement reports.

Authorities stated that the injuries resulted from both vehicle collisions and stab wounds. A witness informed police that they had observed a vehicle approaching a crowd of people, prompting a swift response from firearms officers.

Designated as a major incident, the police classified it under “PLATO”, a term indicating that the situation is being treated as a potential terrorist attack, as reported by ABC News. Notably, the incident coincided with Yom Kippur, recognized as the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his shock regarding the attack, announcing his intention to lead a COBRA emergency committee meeting upon his return to London.

Starmer emphasized the horror of the incident occurring on Yom Kippur, extending his condolences to the victims' families and expressing appreciation for the efforts of emergency services and first responders.

“I am horrified by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, makes it even more dreadful. My thoughts are with the families of those affected, and I extend my gratitude to the emergency services and first responders,” Starmer posted on X.

Before returning to the UK, Starmer remarked, “The attack in Manchester this morning is utterly shocking, and our thoughts are with those impacted. I am en route back to London, where I will lead an emergency COBRA meeting. I can confirm that additional police resources are being deployed to synagogues nationwide to ensure the safety of our Jewish communities.”