Victim hailed as hero for preventing terrorist from entering Manchester synagogue

Rabbi Daniel Walker said Daulby had been holding the synagogue doors shut to protect worshippers inside.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Adrian Daulby, 53, a worshipper accidentally shot and killed by police while helping block the door of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation during the Yom Kippur terror attack, was described as a “hero” by his family and friends.

The attack, which left two dead and three wounded, could have resulted in additional fatalities and injuries if the terrorist had gained access to the inside of the synagogue.

Police said Daulby’s actions helped prevent attacker Jihad al-Shamie, 35, from entering the synagogue. “Adrian was one of the brave worshippers who stopped the attacker from gaining access,” Greater Manchester Police said, calling his death “a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the urgently required action taken by our officers to bring a vicious attack to an end.”

Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson confirmed that Daulby’s fatal wound appeared to have been caused by police gunfire as officers confronted al-Shamie, a British citizen of Syrian origin.

Al-Shamie was shot dead outside the synagogue wearing what appeared to be an explosive vest, later determined to be fake.

Rabbi Daniel Walker said Daulby had been holding the synagogue doors shut to protect worshippers inside. “That was Adrian, who was making sure everyone stayed safe,” he told Sky News. “He was murdered in the act of courage.”

Daulby’s family described him as “a hero” and “a down-to-earth man” loved by his nieces and nephew. “His final act was one of profound courage and he will forever be remembered for his heroic act,” they said.

The second victim, Melvin Cravitz, 66, was a security guard who died defending the congregation. His relatives called him a “gentle giant” who “would do anything to help anyone.”

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has opened an investigation into the fatal shooting. One of the wounded victims also sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot injury during the chaos.

Police said al-Shamie, who was on bail for alleged rape, rammed his car into congregants before launching a stabbing attack. Neighbors described him as “odd” but not known to authorities for extremism.

Rabbi Walker said the community remains shaken but united. “The pain is very raw, but we are strong and will recover,” he said.