Rabbi Daniel Walker has spoken of the terrifying moment he and others held the doors of Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester shut as an attacker tried to force his way in.
The incident, which took place before a Yom Kippur service, left two people dead and several others injured. Police have identified the attacker as Jihad Al-Shamie, who drove into pedestrians and stabbed a man before attempting to storm the synagogue. He was later shot dead by officers.
“I Saw Evil, I Saw Hate”
Speaking to the BBC, Rabbi Walker described the chaos as Al-Shamie hurled heavy plant pots and body-charged the synagogue doors.
“I saw evil, I saw hate,” he said. “But I also saw genuine heroism. People ran to help others rather than running away. It was astonishing.”
The rabbi praised the quick actions of those inside the building, crediting one individual with locking the doors just in time. He noted that had the attacker gained entry, the consequences would have been catastrophic, especially as hundreds of worshippers were expected later in the day.
Community in Shock
Among the victims were Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, who tragically lost their lives. Three more remain in hospital with serious injuries. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Mr. Daulby was accidentally shot by police gunfire during the response.
Despite the fear, Rabbi Walker urged resilience. “I believe very strongly that we can’t allow this to beat us,” he said, vowing to support grieving families and his wider community.
Praise for Quick Thinking
Both Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and witnesses have hailed Rabbi Walker and the synagogue’s security guards as heroes. But the rabbi himself remains humble. “I’m not sure that is accurate,” he said.
One witness added that the rabbi’s calm leadership helped guide the congregation to safety, preventing further tragedy.
