In a disturbing incident early on March 23, four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance service were set ablaze in Golders Green, London. This arson attack is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, raising significant concern within the local community.
Police were alerted to the fire on Highfield Road at approximately 1:45 AM. The London Fire Brigade responded swiftly, dispatching six fire engines and around 40 firefighters to the scene. The fire was brought under control by 3:06 AM, but not before nearby houses were evacuated due to explosions linked to gas canisters onboard the ambulances.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of the incident. However, the explosions caused alarm, leading to the evacuation of dozens of residents from their homes. Superintendent Sarah Jackson of the Metropolitan Police commented, “We know this incident will cause a great deal of community concern and officers remain on scene to carry out urgent enquiries.”
Hatzalah, the organization that operates the ambulances, has been serving the North London community since 1979. Shimon Ryde, a community leader, expressed his shock, stating, “It’s very shocking, it’s not unexpected. The Jewish community is very aware of the danger we live in.”
As the investigation unfolds, police are currently searching for three suspects connected to the attack. There have been no arrests made at this stage. Dean Cohen, a local representative, remarked on the chilling nature of the incident, noting, “The fact the incident had taken place in the car park of a synagogue is particularly chilling and will send shock waves through our community at a time of already heightened fears over antisemitism in the UK.”
Shomrim, a volunteer neighborhood watch group, clarified that the explosions were caused by oxygen tanks and not by a bomb or explosive device, attempting to alleviate some community fears.
The incident has sparked urgent discussions about safety and security within the Jewish community in London, which has faced increasing concerns over antisemitism in recent years. Observers are calling for heightened vigilance and support for community safety measures.
Details remain unconfirmed as the investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.