Arson Attack Destroys Hatzolah Ambulances in London
Several ambulances belonging to Hatzolah Northwest, a Jewish volunteer emergency medical service, were destroyed in a deliberate arson attack in Golders Green, northwest London, in the early hours of Monday morning — in what is widely being seen as a targeted antisemitic hate crime.
by COLlive Editor · COLliveSeveral ambulances belonging to Hatzolah Northwest, a Jewish volunteer emergency medical service, were destroyed in a deliberate arson attack in Golders Green, northwest London, in the early hours of Monday morning — in what is widely being seen as a targeted antisemitic hate crime.
Surveillance footage circulating on social media shows three hooded and masked suspects dressed in black approaching the lot where the ambulances were parked, carrying gas canisters. The men are seen pouring gasoline on the vehicles before setting them alight and fleeing the scene. At least four ambulances were destroyed in the blaze.
The choice of target leaves little ambiguity. Hatzolah is one of the most visible Jewish communal institutions in Golders Green — a neighborhood that has long been the heart of London’s Orthodox Jewish community. The attackers did not stumble upon these vehicles by chance; they came prepared, with gas canisters, in the middle of the night, to destroy them.
Loud explosions were heard across the surrounding area during the incident. Shomrim NW London confirmed that the blasts were caused by oxygen tanks inside the burning vehicles, and not any bomb or explosive device. Local buildings were evacuated as a precaution. No casualties have been reported.
An active manhunt is now underway. Police and Shomrim are working to identify the three suspects seen in the footage, and the public is urged to come forward with any additional information or video.
Hatzolah NW confirmed that despite the loss of the vehicles, it remains fully operational and is continuing to deliver emergency services without interruption.
Authorities have not yet formally declared an antisemitic motive — but given the target, the preparation, and the deliberate nature of the attack, few are waiting for that declaration to call it what it is.
Click here to donate for the purchase of new ambulances now.
Never Miss a Headline!
Sign up for the COLlive Daily News Roundup and never miss a story
Opt In
- I would like to receive the collive newsletter