Mar 16: Alarmed by Crusader massacres of local Jews in surrounding towns, the Jews of York gain entry to Clifford Tower.
The tower is subsequently besieged by Crusaders demanding that the Jews convert to Christianity or die. The spiritual leader of the Jews, Rav Yom Tov of Joigny, directed his flock to kill themselves rather than convert. The political leader of the Jews, Josce, thereupon stepped forth and slew his wife and his two children. Then by pre–agreement Yom Tov slew Josce, and on it went until all but a few lay dead or dying.
The handful who did not commit suicide surrendered to the Crusaders at daybreak under promise, apparently, that enough blood had been spilled. Whereupon they were massacred. And the wooden Clifford Tower burnt down.
Then the Crusaders marched on towards Jerusalem.