In the early hours of March 23, 2026, a shocking incident unfolded in Golders Green, London, when four ambulances belonging to the Jewish Community Ambulance service, Hatzalah, were set ablaze. This act of arson is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, stirring deep concerns within the local community.
Police were alerted to the fire at approximately 1:45 AM, responding swiftly to Highfield Road. The London Fire Brigade dispatched six fire engines and around 40 firefighters to the scene, where they worked diligently to contain the blaze. By 3:06 AM, the fire was brought under control, but not without causing significant alarm.
As firefighters battled the flames, nearby houses were evacuated due to explosions linked to gas canisters onboard the ambulances. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, but the incident has left many residents shaken. Dozens were temporarily relocated to a local shelter as a precaution.
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.” This statement underscores the gravity of the situation, as the community grapples with the implications of such a targeted attack.
Shimon Ryde, a local resident, expressed his shock, stating, “It’s very shocking, it’s not unexpected. The Jewish community is very aware of the danger we live in.” His words reflect a growing unease among community members who have faced rising antisemitism in recent years.
Initial investigations have led police to seek three suspects, although no arrests have been made at this stage. The fact that the ambulances were parked next to a synagogue adds a particularly chilling element to the incident, as noted by community leader Dean Cohen. He remarked, “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.”
In a statement, the volunteer organization Shomrim clarified that the explosions were caused by oxygen tanks, not a bomb or explosive device, attempting to alleviate some of the panic surrounding the event.
Hatzalah, which has been serving the North London community since 1979, provides essential emergency medical response and transportation to hospitals for free. The attack on their ambulances not only disrupts their vital service but also sends a distressing message to the community they serve.
As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, grappling with the implications of this attack. Observers are calling for increased vigilance and support for those affected, as the repercussions of this incident are likely to resonate far beyond the immediate aftermath.
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