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'People shouldn't be scared to go to synagogue': Manchester attack victim speaks out

A man injured in the Manchester terrorist attack has spoken for the first time about his return to the Heaton Park synagogue.

Yoni Finlay was among those barricading the doors to stop the attacker, Jihad al Shamie, from getting inside the synagogue earlier this month.

Al Shamie was shot and killed by police, but one of their bullets came through the synagogue door - striking Mr Finlay and killing Adrian Daulby, one of two men who lost their lives.

Mr Finlay was in surgery for seven hours on the day of the attack.

Today, he told Sky News about his return to the scene.

"It was easier than I thought because of the love and support. It's difficult though because obviously I know I'm lucky, we didn't all make it, and those are the real heroes," he said.

"It was bad, but it could have been worse - I'm here."

However, he also spoke about the wider effect on the synagogue community.

"It's scary when people are going to the synagogue and just want to go about their daily lives and do their prayers.

"We shouldn't be scared to go to synagogue."

Mr Finlay was among those who met the King at the synagogue in Crumpsall today.

The monarch spent time paying his respects at the outside memorial area next to the synagogue, where flowers and messages have been left.

He also spoke to those affected by the attack.

Mr Finlay said: "A lot of people said that it (the terror attack) was a shock, but it wasn't a surprise what happened to our people.

"So, the fact that the King came and showed his support, showed his care, and he took a lot of time as well, meant a lot."

Read more from Sky News:
Letter calls for 'antisemitic' gig by Bob Vylan to be cancelled
Ex-England footballer Stuart Pearce's son dies in crash

'The best and worst of humanity'

Mr Finlay said he had been overwhelmed by well wishes from people both within and outside the synagogue.

He said he attended a service last week where there were well over 1,000 people "from all walks of the community" which he described as "absolutely incredible".

"You see the love, and you see the care - and that helps. We are a very special community.

"Three weeks ago I saw the worst of humanity, now I am seeing the very best."

Sky News

(c) Sky News 2025: 'People shouldn't be scared to go to synagogue': Manchester attack victim speaks out

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