Survivor Recounts Moment When 'Monster' Assaulted Manchester Synagogue
An individual who helped fortifying a house of prayer in the Manchester area has described how a deadly attack took place, causing the demise of two British Jews.
On Thursday morning, the survivor was present in the local synagogue when the assailant drove a vehicle toward and assaulted members gathering for a ceremony to observe the holy day.
He explained that the 'monster' perpetrator attempted to force open the doors of the place of worship, and he described barricading the building with other attendees.
Two individuals, aged 53 and 66 were killed in the attack on that day, while additional persons were injured while helping to safeguard worshippers.
Survivor Testimony of the Violence
Mr Levy, who is a key figure at the house of worship, recounted reinforcing the doors and noted that the attacker used blades and plant pots to attempt entry.
I observed a large, menacing figure forcefully push against the entrance, attempting to break them open holding a sharp weapon," he explained to interviewers.
"The only thing I heard from him was 'this is what you're going to get for killing our children'.
Just those words he expressed. We stood within the synagogue and we were saying 'we are not letting this man in'.
He appeared as an insane and malevolent attacker."
Memorial Service Held for Deceased
These statements were made as many individuals attended the funeral service for the deceased.
Family members, attendees from the synagogue group as well as Rabbi Daniel Walker, and participants of the Jewish population came together in the local area to honor the deceased.
Those present crowded the cemetery forecourt, with a number standing outdoors the chapel in the rain, hearing the service and eulogy over speakers.
In a tribute shared on the following day, the victim's loved ones stated that he was always willing to assist.
Authorities Investigation and Detentions
Greater Manchester Police indicated that one victim may have been affected by officer shots as they neutralized the perpetrator shortly after the alarm was raised.
The victim, who was described by his relatives as a "courageous person", was present at a ceremony at the synagogue when the incident began.
"He was a beloved brother, devoted uncle to his four nieces and one nephew and a dear extended family member," his loved ones stated.
His loved ones are shocked by the tragic, sudden death of a kind and humble individual.
What he did at the end showed immense heroism and he remains in memory for his courageous effort."
Several arrests took place in regarding the incident, and police indicated that several individuals were under arrest on that time.
The detained were arrested on suspicion of terrorism-related activities.
The individuals detained are two men, of specific ages and apprehended nearby; a female in her 60s arrested in Prestwich; and a middle-aged female detained in another location.
Two additional individuals were released with no additional charges, authorities reported on the following day.
