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Two victims killed in an assault on a synagogue in Manchester have been revealed by law enforcement as 53-year-old Adrian Daulby, and Melvin Cravitz, 66.

Three others remain in hospital with critical wounds after the attacker used an automobile into pedestrians before stabbing others on the morning of the incident.

The assault, which authorities have declared was a terrorist incident, took place during the Day of Atonement, the most important observance in the Jewish tradition.

The perpetrator, who was fatally shot at the scene, was a thirty-five-year-old British citizen of Syrian background who was not previously known to counter-terrorism authorities, as stated by official statements.

Public Reaction

"Our hearts are broken," Britain's senior Jewish leader stated.

During a conversation on a national radio program, he stated: "What transpired yesterday was an awful blow to us, something which actually we were fearing might happen because of the escalating tensions."

The attack was not only "a profoundly troubling moment" for Jews in Britain "but for all of our society," he emphasized.

Security Measures

"Our obligation is to ensure our Jewish population, our residents can conduct their daily activities with security and assurance," a senior government official declared.

"It is unacceptable that Jewish people in our country to believe they must live a reduced Jewish identity, that they cannot conduct their affairs and practice their faith and visit their worship places in liberty," she added.

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

Police Inquiry

The law enforcement inquiry was "moving forward quickly" and there was an additional law enforcement visibility at Jewish worship centers across the UK.

"Funding is available for safety resources," the minister stated, adding: "We must evaluate what additional measures we can implement to address increasing anti-Jewish sentiment."

Greater Manchester police announced they were assisting the relatives of the two victims.

"My deepest sympathies are with those affected by this tragedy at this profoundly challenging moment," a senior police officer declared.

He said that specialized support personnel were in communication with families and would maintain assistance through the official inquiries.

"Whilst there are processes which require adherence, we pledge to remain sensitive of religious traditions and concerns and to guaranteeing that these men and their loved ones' wishes are followed," he continued, noting that the both victims were from the Manchester community.

Post-mortems are taking place on the following day, per official sources.