Statements from Chief Fire Officer, Dave Russel, following major incident on Middleton Road

Statement from Chief Fire Officer, Dave Russel, at 10pm on 2 October 2025:

“First and foremost, the thoughts of everyone from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are with those who have lost their lives, their families and their loved ones, those who are injured and our Jewish community, following this truly devastating and horrifying incident. We have lowered our flag at Broughton Community Fire Station as a mark of respect.

“I want to thank our emergency service partners, in particular Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service, who, alongside our firefighters, acted with incredible bravery to respond decisively and swiftly to the attack.

“Our crews were on their way back from another 999 call when they came across the incident at the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue and immediately attended to provide emergency care to casualties alongside North West Ambulance Service and evacuate a neighbouring building.

“A further eight fire crews then attended the scene to provide specialist support, with all our firefighters trained to respond to terrorist attacks of this nature.

“We will continue to work with colleagues from Greater Manchester Police, Manchester City Council and our other partners to provide support to those affected.

“Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service will always stand in solidarity with the diverse communities of our city region."

Statement from Chief Fire Officer, Dave Russel, at 1.30pm on 2 October 2025:

"Shortly after 9.40am today (Thursday, 2 October 2025), fire engines from across Greater Manchester, including specialist appliances, were mobilised to a major incident outside a synagogue on Middleton Road, Manchester.

"Our firefighters arrived quickly and worked alongside colleagues from Greater Manchester Police and North West Ambulance Service to provide emergency care for casualties and evacuate a neighbouring building.

"Our crews remain at the scene, where we will work alongside our emergency service partners and provide all the support we can.

"All our thoughts are with those affected by this horrifying incident."

Article Published: 02/10/2025 13:36 PM