Four people were injured on Thursday morning in a combined vehicle ramming and stabbing attack outside a synagogue in north Manchester, prompting armed police to shoot the suspected assailant.

Greater Manchester Police said officers were called shortly after 9:30 a.m. to the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation in Crumpsall, where a witness reported a car being driven at pedestrians and a man attacking people with a knife. Armed officers arrived within minutes and opened fire on the suspect after the assaults.

“There are currently four members of the public with injuries caused by both the vehicle and stab wounds,” GMP said in a statement on X.

The attack took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence, calling it “horrific.” “I’m appalled by the attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall. The fact that this has taken place on Yom Kippur makes it all the more horrific,” he said. “My thoughts are with the loved ones of all those affected, and my thanks go to the emergency services and all the first responders.”

Witnesses reported a heavy police presence at the scene. Reuters said ambulance crews wearing body armour and helmets were deployed, and at least one injured person was seen being taken into an ambulance. The North West Ambulance Service declared a major incident, confirming that additional resources had been dispatched and staff were working closely with police.

Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, urged calm while acknowledging the gravity of the incident. “The immediate danger appears to be over, and Greater Manchester Police have dealt with it very quickly,” he told BBC radio, asking the public to stay away from the area.

Authorities have not released details about the suspect’s identity or possible motive. Investigations remain ongoing.