UK Metropolitan Police are searching for an adult male suspect accused of launching an acid attack on minor students outside a school in Westminster on Monday, Sept. 30. The unidentified suspect, described as a tall, slim, black male, was wearing dark clothing with his face obscured behind a mask or balaclava at the time of the attack, police said.
Two minor students, a 16-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl, sustained significant injuries and were transported to the hospital, where they remain. A teacher who provided aid to the victims was injured in the process but has since been released from the hospital.
The female student’s injuries are being treated as life-changing, while the boy sustained less severe injuries, authorities said.
The incident occurred around 4:42 pm outside Westminster Academy in Alfred Road, W2. A lone suspect allegedly approached the students and threw an acid substance at them. He then fled the scene on an e-scooter, traveling down Harrow Road, according to police.
Officers were flagged down and responded to the scene with paramedics and the London Fire Brigade. Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis, who is leading the investigation, said a manhunt is now underway.
“I know how incredibly concerning this incident is to parents and pupils and the wider Westminster community. We are in close contact with the school and local authority, and I can assure people that a thorough investigation is well underway, and that my officers will not stop until the suspect is found and arrested,” Detective Purvis said in a press release.
He added: “If you have information that can help us, it is imperative that you tell us immediately. The area at the time was busy with people and cars. I am particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have captured dash cam footage that can help us establish what happened.”
The detective said that two officers who responded to the scene were treated at the hospital as a precaution after they reported feeling unwell. They both have been released from the hospital and are in good condition.
The substance is currently undergoing testing, and officers are of the opinion that it is an acid. There have been no arrests. Those who might have witnessed the incident or possess information that could be beneficial to the police are encouraged to contact 101 with reference CAD 4987/30Sep. Call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.
