IOPC confirms GMP officers are witnesses in Crumpsall terror attack investigation

Wednesday, 8 October 2025 19:24

By Adam Clark

Logo for The Independent Office for Police Conduct

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed that three Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers who fired their weapons during last week’s terror attack in Crumpsall are being treated as witnesses in the ongoing investigation.

The attack, which took place outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation Synagogue, left suspect Jihad Al-Shamie dead after being shot by armed officers. Two men inside the synagogue were also injured when police discharged their weapons, one of whom, Adrian Daulby, later died.

According to the IOPC, both Mr Daulby and the surviving injured man sustained single gunshot wounds likely caused by police-issued firearms. A full ballistic analysis is underway to confirm this.

IOPC Director Emily Barry said: “This was a tragic incident in which innocent people lost their lives, and others were seriously injured. Families, and the wider community, are grieving the loss of loved ones following this act of senseless violence.”

She confirmed that while the three armed officers and other responding personnel are currently classed as witnesses, their status could change as new evidence emerges.

The IOPC began its investigation within hours of the incident and is analysing CCTV footage from a six-minute window between 9.37 and 9.43am, along with police statements. No other firearms were recovered at the scene.

Ms Barry added that the watchdog is “working alongside Counter Terrorism Policing North West to ensure both investigations progress as smoothly and efficiently as possible”.

The IOPC has contacted the families of both victims to explain its role and offer support.

Separately, GMP has referred another matter to the IOPC concerning previous contact with Mr Al-Shamie. It relates to an allegation of rape made against him in December 2024. The IOPC is currently assessing whether this warrants a separate investigation.

Sir Stephen Watson, Chief Constable, Greater Manchester Police said: “I welcome this continued support and acknowledge the fact that the IOPC have today confirmed their finding that no misconduct is apparent in the actions required of our officers in bringing this dreadful attack to an end. These findings relate to the death of the terrorist and to the tragic death of Mr Adrian Daulby; and the injury sustained by another courageous member of the congregation.

“GMP is committed to openness, transparency and candour in respect of all our previous dealings with the terrorist. We have therefore asked the IOPC to include this aspect in their ongoing review.”