‘It was horrific’: Jewish security volunteers first on scene of Golders Green attack

A Stabbing in Golders Green

It was horrific – During a tense moment on Wednesday, a Jewish volunteer recounted the chaos that unfolded on the streets of Golders Green after an assailant attacked two men. The incident, classified as a terrorist act by police, left the community in shock and raised concerns about rising antisemitic threats. The victim, a 76-year-old man, was found bleeding from his neck, prompting immediate action from bystanders and security patrols.

“It was horrific,” said Ben Grossnass, a member of the Jewish security group Shomrim, during an interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. Grossnass was among the first to arrive at the scene, describing the frantic atmosphere as police and volunteers worked together to contain the situation. “We haven’t got over yet from the previous incident, and this has happened, with small attacks in the past three to four weeks also targeting synagogues and community centres,” he added.

First Responders and Community Action

Yonathan Elkouby, another Shomrim volunteer, shared his account of the attack. After finishing his shift at a nearby establishment, he rushed to the scene on Golders Green Road and used his vehicle to obstruct the suspect, aiding in the capture of the attacker. “At that moment, I had no idea that two people had been stabbed, all I knew was the guy had a knife,” Elkouby told PA news agency. The incident, which occurred on Highfield Avenue, was captured on video, showing the attacker lunging at an older man wearing a kippah at a bus stop.

“Afterwards when I think about it, it was quite traumatising, because I was thinking the guy did come towards me, he was going towards the police, to all the people around him,” Elkouby explained. He described how the attacker was subdued by officers after being tasered, with volunteers holding his legs and hands while the man lay on the ground. “It’s just one after another and we [are] just crying out to the government to listen to us, feel the pain of the community. What’s going on?” Grossnass said, reflecting on the lingering fear that followed earlier arson attacks.

Government Response and Police Presence

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood addressed the growing anxiety, vowing that the government would take every measure to safeguard Jewish citizens. “I will not tolerate a situation where our Jewish citizens have to lead smaller lives to keep themselves safe,” she stated. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that officers arrived at the scene at 11:16 BST, responding to reports of a stabbing in the area. They highlighted the enhanced police presence as a key strategy to protect the community.

“Without their bravery I dread to think what the outcome would have been. I also want to recognise the extraordinary voluntary first responders from the community, including the Shomrim,” said Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley. He noted the attacker’s history of serious violence and mental health issues, which had contributed to the sense of urgency in the response. “This was a calculated act of terror, and the quick actions of the volunteers made all the difference.”

Community Impact and Resilience

The attack has intensified fears among Jewish residents, who have already endured a series of arson incidents targeting Jewish property. Local business owner Tariq Aziz, who helped the 76-year-old victim at his pizza shop, described the emotional toll of the event. “He came to our shop and then I gave him a tissue and helped him, and then police came suddenly and arrested the guy,” Aziz told PA Media. His account underscores the spontaneous support from ordinary citizens in moments of crisis.

“Our kids are in shock and fear and having a hard time at the moment, just going up, walking, going to the shops, going to synagogue,” said Steven Bak, another Shomrim volunteer. Despite the trauma, Bak emphasized the community’s commitment to unity. “So we have to pull together like we normally do, and just try and continue life,” he added, highlighting the resilience of Jewish residents in the face of ongoing threats.

Broader Context of Antisemitic Attacks

The Golders Green attack is part of a pattern of antisemitic incidents in London, which have included arson attacks on ambulances operated by Hatzola, a Jewish medical charity. These attacks have left the Jewish community increasingly vigilant, with many feeling the weight of recent events. Grossnass noted that the fear was not unfounded, as the March incident involving Hatzola ambulances had already shaken confidence in public safety.

“We’re all shocked,” Bak reiterated, speaking to the BBC. “The sense of vulnerability has grown, but so has our determination to protect one another.” The volunteers’ actions during the attack serve as a testament to the community’s proactive approach to safety. From Grossnass’s initial response to Elkouby’s car blocking, these efforts demonstrate a collective resolve to stand against violence.

Aftermath and Continued Vigilance

Following the arrest of the suspect, authorities have called for increased security measures and greater awareness of potential threats. The Met Police confirmed that the attacker remains in custody, charged with attempted murder. Meanwhile, the Jewish community continues to organize and patrol their neighborhoods, ensuring that no incident goes unnoticed. This grassroots vigilance complements the government’s efforts, with both sides working to address the growing sense of insecurity.

“This was not just an attack on individuals, but a message to the entire community,” Grossnass said, capturing the gravity of the event. The volunteers’ swift intervention helped prevent further harm, but the lingering fear indicates that the threat is far from over. “We need more than just police presence—we need support, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose,” he urged, reflecting on the broader implications of the attack.

A Call for Unity and Action

As the community grapples with the aftermath, there is a clear call for solidarity and continued action. Local leaders and volunteers emphasize that while the attacks are alarming, they also serve as a reminder of the community’s strength. “We are not just victims, we are fighters,” Bak asserted, speaking about the shared responsibility of protecting each other. The events of Wednesday have galvanized Jewish residents, reinforcing their commitment to resilience and unity in the face of adversity.