Manchester, UK – October 20, 2025 – King Charles has expressed his solidarity with the families affected by the terror attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Manchester, as well as with the wider Jewish community and emergency services workers. The King‘s visit comes after the tragic events of October 2, when the synagogue was attacked by Jihad Al-Shamie, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving three others injured.
What Happened
King Charles was greeted by Rabbi Daniel Walker upon his arrival at the synagogue, located just a few meters from the site of the terror attack. Jihad Al-Shamie, armed with a knife and wearing a fake suicide belt, attempted to storm the synagogue after driving his car at worshippers. Melvin Cravitz, 66, a father-of-three, and Adrian Daulby, 53, who had bravely tried to barricade the doors, were tragically killed during the attack.
Mr. Daulby’s death is believed to have been a result of a tragic mistake by armed police, who inadvertently shot him while responding to the scene. Meanwhile, three other individuals were badly injured, including Yoni Finlay, who helped block the doors, a security guard with car-impact injuries, and a Community Security Trust (CST) worker who suffered stab wounds.
The King’s Visit
King Charles spent a few moments at an outdoor memorial next to the synagogue, where flowers and messages of support have been left by mourners. The monarch‘s visit was a significant gesture of support and solidarity with those affected by the attack, as well as the Jewish community as a whole. The King is also expected to meet with emergency service personnel to recognize their quick response and dedication in the aftermath of the horrific attack.
Greater Manchester Police has been praised for their swift action, with armed officers arriving on the scene within just seven minutes. Their response is being hailed as exemplary, having helped prevent further loss of life and contained the situation.
Background and the Royal Family’s Response
This visit marks King Charles’s first official engagement since his brother, Prince Andrew, stepped down from his royal duties, relinquishing his titles amidst growing public scrutiny following the release of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir. The memoir and its allegations have placed further strain on Prince Andrew, who has repeatedly denied the accusations.
Despite the personal controversies surrounding the royal family, King Charles has focused his attention on supporting the community and acknowledging the incredible work of emergency responders following the tragic incident in Manchester.
Community and Fundraising Efforts
In response to the attack, a fundraising page has been set up to support the Community Security Trust (CST), which provides vital security services and protection to Jewish people and institutions in the UK. The campaign has already raised over £19,000, demonstrating the public’s solidarity with the Jewish community and the need for continued protection against antisemitic violence.
The CST is a UK charity dedicated to protecting the Jewish community from antisemitism and terrorism. It works closely with police and government to provide security, training, and advice to Jewish institutions and individuals. Following the October 2 attack, organizers of the campaign stressed the importance of showing support and solidarity, especially as the community has faced relentless antisemitic attacks since October 7.
Conclusion
The tragic attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community in the UK, particularly in the face of rising antisemitic violence. King Charles’s visit underscores the royal family’s support for the victims and their families, as well as for the emergency services who acted quickly to contain the situation.
As the investigation into the attack continues, the fundraising appeal for the Community Security Trust will play an important role in ensuring continued protection and security for Jewish communities across the UK.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.
