I witnessed evil as attacker attempted to force entry house of worship, spiritual leader describes
A spiritual leader has shared the moment when a man sought to barge into his Manchester synagogue during a deadly attack, remarking "I saw evil, I saw hatred".
Rabbi Daniel Walker explained that he and congregation members held the doors of Heaton Park synagogue as the assailant was "ramming the entrances, throwing large decorative pots, doing anything he could to enter".
Applauding the quick-thinking of those at the synagogue, he stated: "I saw true courage, I have to say, and worshippers who rushed to assist fellow members rather than fleeing. It was remarkable."
Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, both succumbed after the individual struck individuals and attacked a man on the day of the incident.
- Several people remain in the hospital with critical injuries.
- Law enforcement have named Jihad Al-Shamie, who was killed at the scene, as the individual responsible and are considering the assault as a terror event.
"I saw evil": The spiritual leader recalls time of temple incident
The spiritual leader mentioned that the incident occurred before the religious observance was in full swing, and subsequently there would have been many of attendees in attendance.
He said: "If one gentleman in particular did not act as quickly as he managed and got the entrances secured, anyone can picture what would have transpired."
Recounting how the incident transpired, he stated a group of individuals held the gateways closed from the within to make sure the assailant could not gain entry.
Eventually after the authorities reached the scene, rabbi Walker stated two additional people inside the synagogue were harmed.
A person was lost his life and a different individual harmed by officer gunfire, Greater Manchester Police has reported.
A announcement from the department named the man who died by law enforcement as the victim.
Speaking to media, the cleric mentioned he would do his best to extend support to the families of those deceased and the larger community.
"There is fear but there is also support", he stated.
"I believe and hope that we can give comfort and faith. I believe very deeply that we can't allow this to overcome us".
The national leader and bystanders have praised rabbi Walker and the protection staff as "heroes" for their conduct.
When inquired if he viewed himself as a brave person, he answered: "I doubt that is correct".
Nonetheless, a observer at the location said the spiritual leader had remained calm the entire time as he and others guided the assembly to safety.
The loved ones of the victim has also offered praise to their "brave individual" who passed away during "the act of courage to protect fellow human beings".
"The family is stunned by the heartbreaking, sudden death of such a lovely down to earth man" the message continued, as the relatives requested for privacy to grieve.
Important Details About the City Temple Assault
- Various people showed outstanding valor during the attack
- Law enforcement are investigating the assault as terror-driven
- The public has demonstrated both anxiety and strong unity in the wake of the tragedy