Eyewitness Recounts Instant When 'Monster' Assaulted Northern Manchester Jewish House of Worship
An individual who helped fortifying a house of prayer in the region of Manchester has recounted how a tragic incident took place, causing the loss of two British Jews.
Early Thursday, a congregant was within the worship center when a perpetrator rammed a car into and attacked with a knife worshippers assembling for a ceremony to mark Yom Kippur.
The witness stated that the 'evil' perpetrator attempted to break down the entryways of the place of worship, and he recalled locking down the structure with additional attendees.
The victims, in their 50s and 60s died in the incident on that day, while three others were injured while helping to safeguard congregants.
Survivor Testimony of the Violence
He, who acts as a leader at the temple, recounted holding the entry points and said that the perpetrator employed blades and outdoor items to force his way inside.
"I saw a large, menacing figure ram against the entrance, trying to bash them down holding a sharp weapon," he told the media.
The sole statement that could be discerned was him saying 'this is what you're going to get for killing our children'.
That was all I heard him say. And we were behind the doors and we were declaring 'we are not letting this man in'.
He acted like a deranged, evil monster."
Ceremony Held for Victim
The remarks coincided with a large gathering were present at the memorial for Mr Cravitz.
Relatives, members from the local Jewish community as well as the community rabbi, and members of the wider Jewish community gathered in Pendlebury, Salford to show support.
Mourners crowded the cemetery forecourt, with a number waiting outdoors the ceremony space in the inclement weather, following the ceremony and tribute over loudspeakers.
In a tribute shared on the following day, Mr Cravitz's family said that he was always willing to assist.
Police Probe and Arrests
Law enforcement indicated that the individual appeared to have been struck by officer shots as they neutralized the perpetrator following the alarm was raised.
The victim, who was described by his loved ones as a "courageous person", was present at a gathering at the house of worship when the violence occurred.
He remained a dear family member, loving uncle to his several nieces and a nephew and a valued relative," his loved ones stated.
Relatives are shocked by the unexpected loss of a kind and humble individual.
"His final act was one of profound courage and he will forever be remembered for his brave deed."
A number of apprehensions took place in regarding the violence, and police stated that a group remained in custody on that time.
The detained were apprehended for involvement in terrorist acts.
The suspects consist of two men, aged 30 and 32 and apprehended nearby; a 61-year-old woman detained locally; and a woman in her 40s apprehended elsewhere.
An 18-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man were released with no additional charges, police announced on the following day.