A house fire in Stamford Hill, home to London's largest Hasidic Jewish community, is not believed to have been started deliberately, according to the London Fire Brigade (LFB). The blaze broke out on Thursday afternoon at a three-storey terraced house on Cazenove Road, close to a synagogue.
Firefighting Response
Fifteen fire engines and approximately 100 firefighters were deployed to tackle the fire. The LFB confirmed that three people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, with two subsequently taken to hospital. The fire involved the roof and extended to other floors, but has since been brought under control.
Community Context
The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following recent antisemitic attacks in North London, including a stabbing in Golders Green described by police as a terrorist incident. However, LFB Assistant Commissioner Andy Pennick stated: "At this stage, we do not believe that the fire was started deliberately, however, investigations are ongoing by our Fire Investigation Team to determine the cause."
Volunteer Jewish security group Shomrim shared footage of smoke billowing from the building. Hatzola, a Jewish volunteer ambulance service that suffered an arson attack on March 23, also attended the scene. The LFB urged people to avoid the area while firefighters remain on site.
