Large-scale terrorism returned to the streets of Jerusalem Wednesday afternoon when a powerful bomb was set off at a crowded bus stop near the downtown Central Bus Station, killing one person and wounding up to 50 others.
The one fatality, who died of her wounds at a Jerusalem hospital following emergency surgery, was later identified as a British tourist. Three other victims were listed in serious condition.
Security officials said the bomb was planted inside a bag at the base of a telephone booth next to the bus stop. They are still unsure how the bomb was set off - whether it was on a timer or was detonated by remote control - but one thing is clear: the terrorist managed to escape the scene.
Roadblocks were immediately set up around Jerusalem in an effort to capture the terrorist and any accomplices.
The bombing is the first large-scale terrorist attack to hit Jerusalem since the spate of bulldozer and car ramming attacks during the latter half of 2008.