The Story EXTRA: A terrorist attack in Manchester
Oct 3, 2025
Join award-winning reporter Ali Mitib as he delves into the chilling details of the Manchester synagogue attack. He shares eyewitness accounts of the confrontation with attacker Jihad al-Shamie, who brought terror to a Yom Kippur service. Mitib provides insight into police response and community heroics that likely prevented a larger tragedy. He also addresses the complexities surrounding antisemitism and the heightened security measures now in place. The stories of the victims and their defenders are truly moving and a reminder of community resilience.
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Initial Confrontation At Heaton Park
- Jihad al-Shami first approached Heaton Park Synagogue shortly before 9:30am on Yom Kippur and was stopped by security at the gate.
- He returned about ten minutes later with a car, a knife and a fake suicide bomb and rammed the gate before attacking worshippers.
Eyewitness Chaos And Community Defence
- Eyewitnesses described the car crash and sudden stabbing, with people barricading doors and throwing plant pots to stop him.
- A member of the public called police at 9:31am reporting a car driven towards people and one man stabbed.
Rapid Activation Of Counter-Terror Response
- Greater Manchester Police declared a major incident and activated Operation Plato within minutes, pulling in counter-terror, firearms and medical resources.
- Armed officers arrived quickly and issued warnings before firing at the attacker amid concerns he had a bomb.