Manchester, England — Authorities have identified Jihad al-Shamie, a 35-year-old man, as the perpetrator of a violent attack on a synagogue in Manchester that left two individuals dead and several others injured. Al-Shamie allegedly claimed responsibility for the assault during an emergency call to police, asserting that it was carried out in the name of the Islamic State.

In the immediate aftermath of the incident, which involved both a car ramming into worshippers and subsequent stabbings, al-Shamie reportedly told the dispatcher, “I have killed two Jews in the name of the Islamic State.” His declaration prompted counter-terrorism efforts, with police quickly categorizing the event as a terrorist attack.

While he cited allegiance to the jihadist group, investigations by British security services, including MI5, have not substantiated any direct connections between al-Shamie and established terrorist organizations. Instead, officials have described him as a “lone wolf,” suggesting he may have consumed extremist material online without formal affiliation.

Al-Shamie, who was already facing legal issues related to a previous rape accusation, was shot and killed by police on-site. Among the victims were Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66. Reports indicate that Daulby sustained a fatal injury from a police bullet during the fray.

The attack has raised disturbing questions about al-Shamie’s personal life. He is reported to have had multiple marriages, including a recent Islamic union with a woman who has since come forward, describing her experience with him as abusive and controlling. This woman released a voicemail detailing al-Shamie’s contradictory nature, expressing affection while also admitting past anger and conflict.

The couple met through a dating app designed for those of the Islamic faith, and she has shared that their relationship was tumultuous, marked by violence. Al-Shamie was reportedly a university dropout from Syria who gained British citizenship in childhood.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, trying to understand the motivations behind al-Shamie’s actions. A spokesperson from Counter Terrorism Policing North West confirmed that they were looking into all aspects of the case and urged the public to remain vigilant.

As the investigation unfolds, communities in Manchester and beyond are left grappling with the ramifications of this tragic event, raising concern about both domestic extremist threats and the safety of places of worship.