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Two victims fatally injured in an assault on a Jewish house of worship in Manchester have been named by law enforcement as Adrian Daulby, aged 53, and 66-year-old Melvin Cravitz.

Three others are still hospitalized with critical wounds after the assailant used an automobile into people before attacking with a knife on Thursday morning.

The attack, which law enforcement has confirmed was a act of terrorism, came on the Day of Atonement, the holiest day in the Jewish faith.

The perpetrator, who was killed by police at the location, was a thirty-five-year-old British citizen of Syrian background who was not on record to counter terrorism police, according to official statements.

Public Reaction

"We are devastated," the UK's Chief Rabbi commented.

Speaking to a national radio program, he remarked: "The tragic incident was a devastating impact to us, something which we had apprehensions regarding might happen because of the preceding circumstances."

The attack was not only "an extremely difficult period" for Jews in Britain "but for everyone in our country," he added.

Security Measures

"Our obligation is to make sure our Jewish community, our residents can go about their lives with protection and peace of mind," a cabinet minister announced.

"I do not want Jewish citizens in our country to feel like they have to live a limited religious practice, that they cannot conduct their affairs and observe their religion and attend their religious centers in freedom," she stated.

The perpetrator was not known to terrorism investigators, she told media outlets, and it was "not yet possible" to say if there was a organized group behind the attack.

Investigation Update

The criminal probe was "moving forward quickly" and there was an increased police presence at religious institutions across the UK.

"The government does provide safety resources," the official stated, adding: "It will be necessary to examine what more we can do to combat rising antisemitism."

Law enforcement officials announced they were supporting the families of the two deceased individuals.

"My deepest sympathies are with Mr Daulby and Mr Cravitz's loved ones at this incredibly difficult period," the lead investigator stated.

He indicated that trained family liaison officers were in touch with relatives and would continue to support them through the coronial process.

"Whilst there are processes which require adherence, we pledge to remain sensitive of cultural preferences and needs and to making certain that the victims and their loved ones' wishes are followed," he continued, mentioning that the two men were from the local area.

Medical examinations are being conducted on the following day, according to government statements.