Golders Green: Jewish Ambulances Torched in Suspected Antisemitic Attack
Four ambulances belonging to a Jewish charity were set ablaze in London.
Top Summary
- What happened: Four ambulances belonging to the Jewish charity Hatzola were deliberately set on fire in Golders Green, North London.
- Why it matters: The incident is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, raising concerns about rising antisemitism in the UK.
- What changes for people: Increased police patrols and engagement with faith leaders in the Golders Green area to provide reassurance.
- Who is affected: The Jewish community in Golders Green, Hatzola volunteers, and potentially residents in nearby buildings due to explosions.
Arson Attack in Golders Green
Four ambulances belonging to Hatzola, a Jewish community ambulance service, were set on fire in Golders Green early Monday morning.
The Metropolitan Police are treating the incident as an antisemitic hate crime.
Officers responded to reports of a fire on Highfield Road around 1:45 AM.
Emergency Response and Investigation
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) dispatched six fire engines and approximately 40 firefighters to the scene.
The fire damaged four vehicles, and exploding cylinders caused windows to break in a nearby block of flats.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Community Impact and Reactions
Health Secretary Wes Streeting condemned the attack as a "sickening attack on Jewish ambulances".
"This is a sickening attack on Jewish ambulances. Thank goodness there appear to be no injuries. Anyone with information should come forward to the police. We must stand together against antisemitic hatred."
Police Supt Sarah Jackson stated that the incident would cause “a great deal of community concern”.
Police are reviewing CCTV footage and believe they are looking for three suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police anonymously.
Ongoing Investigation and Support
Shomrim, a neighborhood watch organization, reported "loud explosions" caused by oxygen tanks on the ambulances.
Dean Cohen, a Golders Green ward councillor, highlighted the chilling effect of the attack taking place in the “car park of a synagogue".
Community Security Trust (CST) is assisting police with their enquiries, noting similarities to recent antisemitic arson attacks in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Hatzola's Northwest London facility remains fully operational.
What to Watch Next
The Metropolitan Police will continue their investigation, focusing on identifying and apprehending the suspects. Community leaders will likely address the incident and work to reassure residents in Golders Green, while security measures around Jewish community centers may be reviewed and strengthened.