In the early hours of Monday, an ambulance belonging to a Jewish community service was set ablaze in Golders Green, London. This incident is now under investigation by the Metropolitan Police as a potential act of anti-Semitic arson.
Four ambulances were involved in the fire.
Emergency services from the London Fire Brigade arrived at the scene around 1:40 am GMT. As reported by the BBC, CCTV footage captured three individuals approaching the ambulance before igniting it.
The ambulances were part of Hatzola Northwest, which provides emergency services to the community. The fire triggered multiple explosions from gas cylinders within the vehicle, shattering windows in a neighboring apartment complex. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries, although around 30 individuals were evacuated to nearby centers.
The Metropolitan Police released a statement confirming that they are treating the incident as an anti-Semitic hate crime and are conducting an active investigation.
The police confirmed they received reports of explosions, likely linked to a gas canister inside the ambulance.
Police Chief Sarah Jackson stated, “This incident will understandably raise alarm within the community, and our officers remain present for a thorough investigation.” She mentioned that surveillance footage is under review and that they are looking for three potential suspects.
“So far, no arrests have been made, and we encourage anyone with information to reach out—anonymity can be preserved if desired,” she added.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his condemnation of the attack via social media on Monday morning.
“This attack is a deeply disturbing example of anti-Semitic arson. My thoughts are with the Jewish community reacting to this awful news,” Starmer wrote.
He continued, stating, “There is no place for anti-Semitism in our society. I urge anyone who may have information to come forward to the police.”
Superintendent Jackson reiterated the concern this incident raises in the community and assured that officers are dedicated to a prompt investigation.
