Police launch probe after four Hatzalah ambulances, serving the Jewish community, were set on fire in Golders Green. The arson is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
Fire Rocks Early Morning in Golders Green
At around 1:45am on Monday, March 23, the London Fire Brigade alerted police to flames engulfing multiple vehicles on Highfield Road. Officers arrived to find four ambulances ablaze. Nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution, with road closures still in place. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the fires have been extinguished.
Explosions heard at the scene are believed to have come from gas canisters stored inside the ambulances.
Police Hunt Three Suspects, Seek Public Help
Superintendent Sarah Jackson, head of local policing, said:
“We know this incident will cause a great deal of community concern and officers remain on scene to carry out urgent enquiries. We are in the process of examining CCTV and are aware of online footage. We believe we are looking for three suspects at this early stage.”
She added:
“There have been no arrests yet, and we would urge anyone with information to please contact us as soon as possible — you can do so anonymously if you wish. We will be engaging with faith leaders and carrying out additional patrols in the local area as we continue our investigation to provide reassurance and a highly visible presence.”
How to Help the Investigation
Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting CAD415 of 23 March, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.