Police Hunt Suspects After Attempted Antisemitic Arson Attack on Finchley Reform Synagogue

The Metropolitan Police have launched an urgent investigation after an attempted arson attack targeted the Finchley Reform Synagogue in north London early Wednesday morning. Two masked suspects are currently being sought after hurling suspected petrol bombs and a brick at the building, an incident police are treating as an antisemitic hate crime.

Details of the Attack

The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. According to reports from the BBC, two suspects wearing balaclavas and dark clothing approached the synagogue, located on Fallow Court Avenue in Finchley. The pair threw a brick and two bottles believed to contain petrol at the structure.

Fortunately, neither bottle ignited, and authorities report that no injuries were sustained and no damage was caused to the building. Synagogue staff reported the incident to the police at 8:30 a.m.

Police Investigation and Counter-Terrorism Involvement

The Metropolitan Police’s North West Command Unit is leading the investigation, with critical support from specialist detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London. Although no arrests have been made at this early stage, officers are conducting urgent enquiries to trace the suspects.

Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, who leads policing in the area, emphasized that the police grab these incidents extremely seriously. He has urged anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward and noted that residents can expect a heightened police presence in the area over the coming days.

A Pattern of Targeting the Jewish Community

This attack comes amid heightened tensions and a series of alarming incidents targeting the Jewish community in north London. This attempt follows an arson attack less than a month ago in Golders Green, where four ambulances belonging to a Jewish community charity were set alight. Counter-terrorism police are involved in the investigations of both the synagogue and ambulance attacks.

Sarah Sackman, the Labour MP for Finchley and Golders Green, described the event as a “shocking attempt to harm a local synagogue.” In a statement, she asserted that British Jews must be free to attend synagogue or take their children to nursery without fear, stating she “refuses to allow this to become the novel normal.”

The Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, too responded to the incident on X, expressing his gratitude for the police’s response and urging the public to provide any information that could assist the manhunt.

Community Support and Security

The Community Security Trust (CST), a charity dedicated to monitoring antisemitism and providing security for the UK’s Jewish community, is working closely with the police and providing support to the affected location.

Key Takeaways: Finchley Synagogue Attack

• Incident: Attempted arson involving petrol bombs and a brick.
• Location: Finchley Reform Synagogue, Fallow Court Avenue, North London.
• Status: Treated as an antisemitic hate crime.
• Casualties/Damage: No injuries reported; no damage caused as the bottles did not ignite.
• Investigation: Conducted by the Met Police and Counter Terrorism Policing London.
• Context: Follows a recent arson attack on Jewish charity ambulances in Golders Green.

Frequently Asked Questions

Were there any injuries during the attack?

No. According to the Metropolitan Police, there were no injuries and no damage reported following the attempt.

Who is investigating the crime?

The investigation is being handled by the Met’s North West Command Unit with support from specialist detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing London.

What is the current status of the suspects?

Police are currently hunting two suspects who were seen wearing dark clothing and balaclavas. As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made.