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Appeal after car drives towards Jewish children

In north-west London, a black car mounted the kerb and sped toward three 14-year-old boys waiting to cross Holders Hill Road on April 20, 2026. No injuries occurred, and police opened an investigation, treating it as a religiously aggravated assault. Subsequent updates noted witness appeals, community protection measures, and a rise in antisemitic hate crimes in April.

Why It Matters

The incident underscores concerns about antisemitism and public safety for Jewish communities in London, prompting police protections and community outreach.

Timeline

5 Events

Article publication summarizes ongoing investigation

May 7, 2026

The article reported that an investigation had been launched, with police in close contact with Hasmonean High School for Boys. It noted that no arrests had been made and referenced ongoing enquiries, alongside context on rising antisemitic hate crimes in April.

Police announce 100 additional officers for Jewish communities

May 6, 2026

The Metropolitan Police announced a deployment of 100 additional officers to protect London's Jewish communities. The new Community Protection Team would include neighbourhood policing, specialist protection, and counter-terror capabilities.

Headteacher letter to parents describes incident and witness appeal

May 6, 2026

The headteacher of Hasmonean High School for Boys wrote to parents saying the Metropolitan Police were appealing for witnesses and described the incident as an antisemitic traffic incident, sharing concerns for student safety.

April 20, 2026 incident on Holders Hill Road

April 20, 2026

A black car waited on the inside lane near Holders Hill Road, Finchley. As the lights turned green, the car accelerated and mounted the kerb toward three 14-year-old boys waiting to cross. The boys jumped back to avoid being hit; the car sped off. The father of one of the boys said the victims were visibly Jewish. No injuries were reported and police were alerted.

Police say investigation treated as religiously aggravated assault

April 2026

The Metropolitan Police stated the incident was being treated as a religiously aggravated assault and that inquiries were ongoing. Enquiries to establish the circumstances continued and no arrests had been made at that time.