Police are hunting a suspected ‘acid attacker’ who fled on an e-scooter after dousing two teenagers in a corrosive substance outside a school. A 14-year-old girl was left with life-changing injuries and two other victims were hospitalised after the attack outside Westminster Academy in Paddington yesterday.
Police spearheading the manhunt described the suspect as a ‘tall, slim, Black male’ who was wearing dark clothing with his face hidden by a mask or balaclava. They added that the suspect rode an e-scooter to and from the scene.
A teacher, 27, ‘bravely and selflessly’ rushed to provide first aid to the two young victims, injuring herself in the process but has since been discharged from hospital.
A 16-year-old boy, who was a friend of the girl, was also hurt, while the Metropolitan Police said two of its officers who rushed to the scene were also checked over by medics as a precaution.
The attack happened at around 4.40pm on Monday with witnesses claiming they saw people ‘rushing around’ inside and outside the buildings.
The school remained closed to students today, with its headteacher saying the ‘distressing incident’ took place as teachers and pupils were leaving at the end of the school day.
Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘Officers were on routine patrol when they were flagged down to this terrible incident. From our enquiries so far we believe the two young victims were on Alfred Road when they were approached by a lone suspect who threw a substance at them before fleeing down Harrow Road.’
A member of staff bravely and selflessly rushed to provide first aid to the two victims, sustaining injuries herself in the process. Fortunately, she has now left hospital.
The two teenage victims – a girl and a boy – remain in hospital. For the 14-year-old girl, we might not know for some time how severe her injuries are, but at this time, they are being treated as life-changing.
DCI Purvis added: ‘I would like to acknowledge the incredible bravery of all the emergency services who responded, including our London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade colleagues. Two officers were taken to hospital as a precaution after they reported feeling unwell. I am happy to update that they are both well and have left hospital, and we will continue to look after their welfare.’
The principal of Westminster Academy, Mrs Numera Anwar, shared a message as the school remains closed today. Her message read: ‘One pupil, a teacher, and a member of the public have been injured in an incident outside the school building on the main road involving an acid-like corrosive substance.’
It comes shortly after the academy located on a Harrow Road, announced they were closed today via their website. Members of staff have since returned to the premises today and could be seen in meetings.
Locals have since spoken out about the incident, with one describing it as ‘very scary’. A barber continued: ‘Around six ambulances and around four police cars were outside last night, there were people rushing around the school and inside.’
A neighbour said: ‘This is a sensitive time for the community, it’s usually a busy area here but as you can see today- nothing.’
Adam Hug, leader of Westminster City Council, said: ‘This is a truly shocking attack on school pupils and a member of staff. The council has been in touch with Westminster Academy and we will provide educational psychologists and any other support to help children through what is a traumatic ordeal. Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected.’
A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: ‘Police on patrol were flagged down at 16:42hrs on Monday, 30 September by staff at a school in Alfred Road W2 after a substance was allegedly thrown at pupils and a staff member. Officers responded with paramedics and the London Fire Brigade and found three people injured.’
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information that could help police, have been urged to call 101 quoting reference CAD 4987/30 Sept. For those who wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Conclusions:
The investigation into the acid attack at Westminster Academy is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident has left a 14-year-old girl with life-changing injuries and two other victims hospitalized. The school remains closed today, and the community is coming together to support those affected.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What happened in the acid attack?
A: A 14-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy were attacked with a corrosive substance outside Westminster Academy in Paddington. A teacher, 27, rushed to provide first aid, injuring herself in the process.
Q: What is the condition of the victims?
A: The 14-year-old girl has life-changing injuries, and the 16-year-old boy has non-life-threatening injuries. A teacher, 27, has been discharged from hospital after sustaining injuries while providing first aid.
Q: What is the suspect’s description?
A: The suspect is a tall, slim, Black male wearing dark clothing with his face hidden by a mask or balaclava. He rode an e-scooter to and from the scene.
Q: Is the school closed?
A: Yes, Westminster Academy is closed today due to the incident. The school will resume normal operations tomorrow with all safety measures in place.
Q: How can I help?
A: Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the police on 101 quoting reference CAD 4987/30 Sept. For those who wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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