Jihad Al-Shamie Cause of Death Confirmed as Multiple Gunshot Wounds – What We Know

The cause of death for Manchester synagogue attacker Jihad Al-Shamie has been officially confirmed as multiple gunshot wounds. The 35-year-old Syrian-born UK citizen was shot dead by armed police after he ran toward them “aggressively” while carrying a knife and wearing what appeared to be a suicide belt. The inquest into his death was opened and adjourned at Manchester Coroner’s Court on Friday, October 31, 2025.

The violent attack took place on October 2 at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester. Al-Shamie drove his Kia Picanto into the synagogue’s external gates and security staff as worshippers gathered for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Two worshippers, Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby, were killed during the attack before armed police responded to the scene.

Inquest Details and Official Findings

Detective Chief Superintendent Lewis Hughes told the inquest that armed officers “discharged several rounds” at Al-Shamie after he advanced toward them while holding a knife and wearing what looked like an explosive belt. Officers acted immediately to neutralize the threat, fearing he intended to detonate a device inside the synagogue. The suspected suicide belt was later confirmed to be fake.

Following the shooting, Al-Shamie collapsed at the scene and was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Judge Alexia Durran, the Chief Coroner of England and Wales, confirmed that Al-Shamie’s death was caused by multiple gunshot wounds. She added that his identity was verified through fingerprints, his vehicle, his phone, and communication with his immediate family.

The coroner also stated that the inquest would be adjourned to allow for further investigation into the events leading up to the incident. A full hearing will examine whether police followed proper procedures and how the threat was handled during what has been described as one of the most serious antisemitic attacks in recent years.

Community Reaction and Security Implications

The attack sent shockwaves through Manchester’s Jewish community and the wider United Kingdom. Security outside synagogues and other places of worship has since been increased. Faith leaders have praised police for preventing what could have been a far greater tragedy, while also calling for deeper conversations about community safety and extremism prevention.

Experts say the inquest findings may influence future guidance for armed officers responding to suspected terror incidents. The case underscores the difficulty of split-second decision-making in the face of a perceived suicide threat. Forensic teams and counterterrorism investigators continue to review Al-Shamie’s digital activity and background to determine whether others may have been involved or inspired his actions.

In summary, the inquest confirmed that Jihad Al-Shamie died from multiple gunshot wounds inflicted by police during his violent attack on the Heaton Park Hebrew Synagogue. The investigation into the broader circumstances surrounding his actions is ongoing, with a full inquest scheduled for early 2026.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What caused Jihad Al-Shamie’s death?

He died from multiple gunshot wounds after being shot by armed police responding to his attack at the Heaton Park Hebrew Synagogue in Manchester.

Q2: When did the attack occur?

The incident happened on October 2, 2025, during Yom Kippur, as worshippers gathered at the synagogue.

Q3: Were there other victims?

Yes. Two worshippers, Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby, were killed during the attack before police intervened.

Q4: Was the suicide belt real?

No. The belt worn by Jihad Al-Shamie was later found to be a fake explosive device designed to appear authentic.

Q5: What happens next?

The inquest has been adjourned. A full hearing is expected in early 2026 to review police actions and the events leading up to the incident.