Manchester synagogue security guard says 'life changed forever' after attack

A security guard seriously injured during the Manchester synagogue attack last year says "life changed forever that day" and has revealed how he struggles with the aftermath.

Bernard Agyemang, 44, suffered multiple broken bones and a suspected brain injury, when Jihad al Shamie, a Syrian-born UK citizen, drove his car at worshippers outside the Heaton Park Hebrew Synagogue in Crumpsall on 2 October 2025.

Al Shamie went on to attack people with a knife and tried to storm his way inside the synagogue. Armed police shot him dead after he ran towards officers "aggressively" while carrying the knife and what police feared was an explosive device - later identified as a fake.

Worshippers Melvin Cravitz, 66, and Adrian Daulby, 53, were killed in the attack.

Mr Agyemang survived but has ongoing pain, limited mobilty, cognitive difficulties and severe psychological trauma, including PTSD.

"I'm still struggling to process what happened," he said. "For those of us who survived, life changed forever that day.

"I try not to think about the events of that day, but I still suffer from nightmares and flashbacks."

The 44-year-old from Whalley Range, Manchester, said his body "was left broken after the attack", during which he suffered fractures to his right leg and collarbone as well as the suspected brain injury. He now relies on a crutch to walk.

"I live with constant physical pain but it's the trauma that has been the hardest to cope with," he said.

"I now live with a great deal of fear for my family's safety in a place that once felt like the safest place in the world."

The security guard said he was "eternally grateful to still be here" for his partner and children "who've kept me going throughout my recovery".

He added: "I dread to think where I would be without them."

Mr Agyemang spoke out for the first time following the sentencing of al Shamie's associate Mohammad Bashir on Thursday to life in prison for preparing an act of terrorism. The two had planned to attack a UK military base.

It came as Greater Manchester Police apologised for not searching al Shamie's phone when he was arrested twice before he carried out the synagogue attack.

Mr Agyemang said: "While I'm relieved to see one of those involved in the planning and execution of terrorist attacks held accountable for his actions, no sentence will ever make up for the lives we have lost or the suffering my community has endured and continues to endure."

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He added: "By speaking out, I want to show that, despite everything, I will continue to work alongside my family and community as we support one another and gradually recover from this."

To support his ongoing recovery, Mr Agyemang instructed expert serious injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help him access the specialist rehabilitation and therapies he requires.

Richard Biggs, the specialist serious injury lawyer representing him, said after the hearing: "Bernard suffered extremely serious injuries in the October attack, which continues to have a profound impact on his life and that of his family and his community.

"While Bernard is making progress in his recovery, he still faces significant challenges. Nothing can make up for the pain, trauma and loss caused on that dreadful day, but we remain committed to helping him access the specialist rehabilitation and support he needs."

(c) Sky News 2026: Manchester synagogue security guard says 'life changed forever' after attack