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Two victims losing their lives in a violent incident on a Jewish house of worship in Manchester have been named by authorities as Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66.

Three additional individuals are still hospitalized with serious injuries after Jihad Al-Shamie rammed a car into individuals before attacking with a knife on Thursday morning.

The assault, which law enforcement has confirmed was a act of terrorism, occurred on Yom Kippur, the most sacred occasion in the Jewish tradition.

The attacker, who was shot dead at the scene, was a 35-year-old UK national of Syrian descent who was not previously identified to counter terrorism police, according to official statements.

Community Response

"Our hearts are broken," the UK's Chief Rabbi stated.

In an interview with a major broadcast, he said: "Yesterday's events was a terrible shock to us, something which we had apprehensions regarding might happen because of the preceding circumstances."

The attack was not only "a profoundly troubling moment" for the British Jewish community "but for everyone in our country," he emphasized.

Official Reaction

"Our responsibility is to ensure our Jewish citizens, our people can conduct their daily activities with security and assurance," a senior government official declared.

"We cannot allow Jewish citizens in our country to believe they must live a smaller Jewish life, that they cannot pursue their activities and follow their beliefs and attend their religious centers in liberty," she stated.

The attacker was not identified to security services, she stated to media outlets, and it was "too early" to say if there was a organized group behind the attack.

Ongoing Probe

The law enforcement inquiry was "progressing rapidly" and there was an enhanced security deployment at synagogues across the UK.

"Funding is available for security funding," the representative said, adding: "We must evaluate what further actions we can take to deal with rising antisemitism."

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

"Sincere condolences are with the families of the victims at this incredibly difficult period," law enforcement leadership expressed.

He indicated that trained family liaison officers were in contact with them and would maintain assistance through the coronial process.

"Whilst there are processes which need compliance, we promise to be considerate of community customs and sensitivities and to ensuring that these men and their families' preferences are honored," he added, stating that the both victims were from the Manchester community.

Autopsies are scheduled on Friday, per authoritative reports.