Emergency services are investigating an arson attack on ambulances used by Hatzolah Northwest in Golders Green, north London. Police say the incident is being treated as a hate crime, and enquiries are ongoing.
The fire was reported at about 01:36 GMT on Monday, 23 March 2026, outside the Machzikei Hadath synagogue. The Metropolitan Police said three suspects were captured on CCTV approaching the vehicles and setting them alight before leaving the area on foot.
London Fire Brigade crews attended shortly after 02:00 GMT and worked to stop the fire spreading to nearby buildings. No injuries were reported, but the vehicles were badly damaged, reducing local capacity for emergency medical response while replacement arrangements are made.
What police say happened
Detectives say CCTV shows three masked individuals near the parked ambulances in the minutes before the fire started. Officers believe an accelerant may have been used, and they are working to establish how the suspects arrived and left the area.
The scene was cordoned off to allow firefighters and investigators to work safely, given the potential hazards associated with emergency vehicles and medical equipment. Forensic teams have been examining the area for physical evidence that could assist identification.
Police are also reviewing additional CCTV from surrounding streets and nearby transport routes. They have asked anyone with relevant footage from the area between 01:00 and 02:30 GMT to come forward.
Impact on local emergency response
Hatzolah Northwest is a volunteer emergency medical service operating alongside NHS services and the London Ambulance Service. In parts of Barnet, including Golders Green, its responders can provide early on-scene assistance while statutory services are en route.
Community representatives have said the loss of vehicles will affect response resilience in the short term. They also stressed that the service supports the wider public, and that replacing specialist vehicles and equipment will take time and funding.
Extra reassurance patrols have been reported in the area, with local residents encouraged to report suspicious activity. Safety planning around places of worship and community sites is also likely to be reviewed as the investigation continues.
Investigation, safeguarding and next steps
The Metropolitan Police said the arson is being treated as a hate crime and is being led by local detectives with specialist support. Officers are seeking to identify the suspects and establish motive, while avoiding speculation as enquiries continue.
Authorities have reiterated that deliberate damage to emergency vehicles puts public safety at risk and can have wider impacts beyond the immediate location. Investigators are expected to provide updates as forensic work and witness enquiries progress.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police, particularly those with doorbell, dashcam or business CCTV covering the routes around the synagogue at the time of the incident.
