The funeral for Melvin Cravitz, one of the two victims tragically killed in the recent synagogue attack in Manchester, has drawn hundreds of mourners, reflecting the deep impact of this heartbreaking event. This solemn gathering took place in Pendlebury, Salford, where family members, fellow worshippers from the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation—including Rabbi Daniel Walker—and members of the broader Jewish community came together to honor Mr. Cravitz, who was 66 years old.
Despite the rain, the cemetery forecourt was filled with people, many standing outside the prayer hall and listening attentively to the service broadcast through loudspeakers. The attack, which occurred on Thursday, was a shocking act of violence where an assailant drove a car into a group of worshippers and then proceeded to stab them during a service commemorating Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar, at Heaton Park Synagogue.
Rob Kanter, the synagogue’s vice president, spoke warmly about Melvin after the service, describing him as a "loving, charismatic, and humorous man who always had good intentions and a deep love for his community and family." Kanter emphasized that in the face of such tragedy, the community must unite through kindness and hope, values Melvin himself lived by and would want to see continue. He acknowledged the emotional weight of the loss, saying it will take time for everyone to fully process the gravity of what happened, but stressed the community’s resolve to carry on with dignity and pride as Jewish members of British society.
Local resident Aron shared that Melvin worked at a nearby grocery store, which made him a familiar and beloved figure to many. "Because of his public-facing job, he knew so many people, and that’s why his loss has resonated so deeply—so many had a personal connection with him," Aron explained. "He was always patient, always ready with a kind word."
Hannah Salomon, another acquaintance, reflected on Melvin’s ability to make everyone feel like family. "Even if you weren’t related by blood, our culture is about connection, and Melvin truly embodied that spirit," she said.
In a heartfelt tribute released by his family on Friday, they described Melvin as someone who would "do anything to help anyone." They highlighted his kindness, caring nature, and his love for engaging with people. The family also noted his devotion to his wife and family, as well as his fondness for good food.
Anthony Khan, a 35-year-old neighbor who has known Melvin all his life, remembered him as "friendly with everyone, never speaking ill of anyone." Another neighbor, Andy Kordas, recalled how Melvin would often stop by for a chat, always greeting him with a smile. "It’s just terrible," Andy said, expressing the community’s shared sense of loss.
The other victim of the attack, Adrian Daulby, was honored by his family as a "hero." They described the 53-year-old as a cherished brother and a loving uncle, underscoring the personal tragedies behind the headlines.
In addition to the two fatalities, three other men were hospitalized with serious injuries following the attack. As of late Saturday, police confirmed that two men and two women remain in custody on suspicion of terrorism-related offenses. Meanwhile, an 18-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man who were also arrested have been released without further action.
But here’s where it gets controversial: the community’s response to such violence often sparks debate about security, integration, and the balance between openness and protection. How do we ensure safety without compromising the values of inclusivity and freedom? And this is the part most people miss—while the community grieves, there’s an ongoing conversation about how to prevent such tragedies in the future without fostering division or fear.
What do you think? Should more stringent security measures be implemented at places of worship, or could that risk alienating communities? Share your thoughts and join the discussion below.
