A teenage girl has suffered serious injuries in what is believed to be a targeted acid attack outside a school, leaving her with potentially life-changing wounds. Alongside the girl, a 16-year-old boy and a 27-year-old woman were also treated following the incident. Two police officers were later hospitalized after feeling unwell. The attack occurred outside Westminster Academy in central London, and the police are still in search of the perpetrator. The Metropolitan Police were alerted by a member of staff after the incident on Alfred Road, Westbourne Park, at approximately 4.40 pm on Monday.
Authorities have cordoned off multiple crime scenes in connection with the incident. The girl remains in the hospital with severe injuries, while the boy, also hospitalized, is reported to have injuries that are not life-threatening. The woman has been discharged following treatment. A spokesperson for Scotland Yard stated that tests on the substance used in the attack are ongoing but are believed to be acidic. The police are working urgently to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Westminster Academy, which serves students aged 11 to 18 and does not have selection criteria, informed that the school remains closed as of Tuesday, with students continuing their lessons online. The previously scheduled Year Six open morning has been postponed due to the unforeseen circumstances. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police at 101 with the crime reference number CAD 4987/30 Sept. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
This disturbing incident underscores the need for swift and thorough investigations into such attacks to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of communities and schools.