First Memorial Service Conducted for Manchester Synagogue Attack Victim

Hundreds of mourners gathered for the memorial ceremony for one of the two men who were killed the recent synagogue attack in Manchester.

Relatives, members from the Heaton Park Synagogue along with the congregation's rabbi, and representatives of the Jewish community at large assembled in Pendlebury, Salford to honor the memory to Melvin Cravitz, 66.

Mourners occupied the cemetery forecourt, with numerous individuals waiting outside the chapel in the downpour, hearing the ceremony and the tribute over audio systems.

The victim was killed after an perpetrator rammed a car into and attacked with a knife congregants assembling for a service to observe the holiest Jewish holiday – the most sacred occasion of the Jewish year – at Heaton Park Synagogue.

'Kind to all'

Rabbi Walker, who helped to prevent the perpetrator from gaining access to the religious building, was present at Mr Cravitz's memorial service.

In a statement issued on the day after, his relatives asked for time alone and said he would "always assist others".

They stated: "His kindness and caring nature were evident to all, and he always sought conversation and connection."

"He cherished his marital and family bonds deeply and took great pleasure in dining."

Anthony Khan, a thirty-five-year-old neighbour who said he knew Mr Cravitz "all my life", remarked: "He was friendly with everybody – he did not have a bad word with anybody."

A different resident, Andy Kordas, a community member, said: "He always used to come over and have a chat and ask me what I was up to."

"He always had a smile on his face. It's just terrible."

'Cherished sibling'

Bilal Ahmad, an area resident, who said he had resided locally for 20 years, mentioned that the victim was a "wonderful person" and "extremely composed".

"He would always say hello when you came past."

The second casualty of the attack, the other individual who lost his life, was characterized as a "hero" by his family in a tribute.

They further mentioned the 53-year-old was "an adored family member and caring uncle."

Three other men were transported for medical care with serious injuries.

Authorities late on Saturday said four individuals continued to be held after being taken into custody on suspicion of terror-related activities.

An 18-year-old woman and a middle-aged male have been released with no further legal steps.