Image shows suspect moments before Manchester synagogue terror attack

Thursday, 2 October 2025 18:38

By David Murphy

A verified image shows the man believed to be behind Thursday’s deadly terror attack outside a Manchester synagogue, moments before he was shot by police.

BBC Verify has confirmed that the image, taken on the western side of Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall, is genuine and was captured shortly before officers opened fire.

The man is seen standing behind a fence, wearing dark clothing with white items visibly strapped around his waist. He has a bald head and beard, matching the description of the attacker seen in verified video footage of the shooting.

Police confirmed the man was shot and killed by officers at the scene after launching a terror attack during Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

The suspect is believed to have driven a car at a group of worshippers outside the synagogue before getting out and stabbing a person. Two people were killed in the attack, and three more remain in hospital with serious injuries.

Greater Manchester Police, GMP, said there are no outstanding suspects and no ongoing threat to the wider public. The attack has been officially declared a terrorist incident motivated by antisemitism.

The still image has not appeared on any online platform prior to the incident and is not believed to be doctored. BBC Verify's analysis supports claims that the photo was taken moments before the suspect was confronted and shot by police.

Armed response units arrived at the synagogue within minutes of the first 999 call. It is not yet clear whether the suspect was wearing an explosive device or a hoax item. Police have not released his identity.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the attack and said, “Hatred is rising again, and Britain must defeat it again.”

He pledged a more visible police presence outside Jewish schools, synagogues, and community centres, and said “Britain must come together to wrap our arms around the Jewish community”.

Security services remain on high alert and have stepped up patrols at Jewish sites across the country. Community leaders are urging vigilance and asking the public not to speculate on the identity or background of the attacker while investigations continue.

The Community Security Trust, which monitors antisemitism, said the attack was a “sickening escalation” and called for unity and calm.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also responded, saying: “Israel grieves with the Jewish community in the UK after the barbaric terror attack in Manchester.”

Local MP Graham Stringer said the images were “deeply disturbing” but urged people to focus on “supporting the victims and uniting against hate”.