Information continue to emerge about the life of Jihad Al-Shamie, known to be a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian origin.
Al-Shamie reportedly entered the UK during his early youth and was granted British citizenship in 2006, when he was around the age of 16.
He lived in the Manchester area of Prestwich, and his family recently issued a declaration saying: "We completely distance ourselves from this attack and convey our profound dismay and sorrow over what has occurred.
"Our hearts and thoughts are with the those affected and their families, and we pray for their fortitude and solace."
Residents in Prestwich portrayed Al-Shamie as a fitness devotee who infrequently interacted with his neighbors.
They said he would sometimes appear in western clothes and other times in "traditional" Syrian garments.
What did his family say?
On behalf the Al-Shamie household in the UK and abroad, Faraj Al-Shamie said: "Reports from Manchester regarding the violent act targeting a Jewish synagogue has been a profound shock to us.
"The Al-Shamie family everywhere strongly condemns this atrocious deed, which targeted peaceful, innocent civilians.
"We entirely separate ourselves from this attack and express our intense astonishment and sorrow over what has transpired. Our condolences and thoughts are with the victims and their kin, and we wish for their resilience and comfort.
"We kindly request that all press organizations honor the family's privacy during this very difficult time and refrain from employing this tragic event in any manner that does not represent the facts.
"We hope God shows compassion on the innocent victims, and we hope for the quick healing of the injured."
What did neighbors say?
Geoff Haliwell resides close to a house in Langley Crescent, Prestwich, that is thought to be the Al-Shamie family home. It was searched by police officers on Thursday.
Mr Haliwell, 72, said the dwelling used to be on his window-cleaning round and he was acquainted with the wider family "somewhat", saying they were "really nice people".
"I was taken aback, I was shocked," he said, mentioning that he thought the Al-Shamies moved to the street approximately 15 years ago.
He indicated the parent had lived there for five or six years but then left the residence, later visiting in a car with French number plates.
He observed Jihad Al-Shamie would at times wear modern clothing and on other occasions conventional Syrian dress. He also noted Al-Shamie would use benches to exercise.
He added: "I would see him at least once or twice a week, we just said 'greetings'.
"I was unaware of his name.
"He seemed like a straightforward, regular young man, no indication would stand out to make you think he was anything unusual."
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A different resident recalled a infant also living at the address but could not remember noticing a woman staying there.
She commented: "We often observed him out in the garden exercising, lifting weights, push-ups.
"He used to change his clothes.
"On one occasion he would be dressed in the full-length robe, to the floor and the next jeans and sleepwear."
Another resident informed the Daily Telegraph: "I identified him from the images of the suspect. I noticed his little car, the Kia, because he'd always park it incorrectly near our home.
"I'd see him strolling in his pyjamas and slip-on sandals, holding a bag from stores.
"He was quite bulked-up and often stored his fitness equipment in his car port. I noticed them there."
"He did not appear to speak to anybody around here," they added.
Was he known to authorities?
The individual's identity has not been found in initial searches of police and security service databases, and he is not thought to have been subject to ongoing scrutiny.
Further checks are in progress to see if he is listed in any records of other investigations.
It has been mentioned Al-Shamie was previously employed as a instructor educating in the English language and coding, and his father is a surgeon.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated she was "taken aback" by the name of the assailant.
Speaking on a radio station, Ms Mahmood was questioned about the individual's name, Jihad Al-Shamie, which presenter Nick Ferrari translated as "struggle of the Syrian".
She responded: "I was very surprised to discover that name myself.
"Actually, as a follower of Islam, I've never heard anyone being named Jihad, but it is the title that he was born with - that has consistently remained his identity."
