A quiet Sunday afternoon in Manchester turned into a scene of terror and emergency response as multiple people were stabbed in what police are treating as a terrorist incident near a synagogue in Crumpsall.
Emergency Services Scramble to Attack Scene
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they responded to reports of a stabbing on Bury New Road shortly after 1:30 PM, with witnesses describing a vehicle deliberately targeting pedestrians before crashing into a synagogue building. Multiple victims sustained serious knife injuries in the chaotic attack.
Hospital Lockdown and Major Incident Response
Manchester Royal Infirmary and other local hospitals immediately implemented emergency lockdown procedures, restricting access while receiving multiple casualties. Medical staff were placed on high alert as ambulance services worked to transport victims from the scene.
"All emergency services are responding to this incident, which has been declared a terrorist attack," confirmed Chief Constable Stephen Watson. "We have one man in custody and the situation is contained."
Eyewitness Accounts of Chaos
Local residents described scenes of panic as the attack unfolded. "I heard screaming and saw people running in all directions," said one witness who asked not to be named. "The car had mounted the pavement and there was obvious damage to the synagogue building."
Another witness reported seeing "multiple people with visible injuries" being treated by paramedics at the scene before being rushed to hospital.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Jewish community in Manchester has been left shaken by the attack, which occurred near a place of worship. Community leaders have been working closely with police to ensure appropriate security measures are in place.
Counter Terrorism Policing North West has taken lead on the investigation, with forensic teams conducting detailed examinations of the crime scene throughout Sunday evening. Police have confirmed they are not looking for any other suspects at this time.
The attack has prompted increased police patrols in Jewish communities across Greater Manchester, with authorities urging calm while the investigation continues.
