A suspected acid attack outside Westminster Academy in west London on Monday has resulted in two teenagers being hospitalized, with one suffering potentially life-changing injuries.
The incident occurred in the afternoon as students and staff were leaving the school. According to police, a substance believed to be acidic was thrown at three individuals: a 14-year-old girl, a 16-year-old boy, and a 27-year-old woman.
The 14-year-old girl’s injuries are described as potentially life-changing, prompting urgent investigations by the police. The 16-year-old boy, who also sustained injuries, is currently hospitalized, but his injuries are not considered life-threatening. The 27-year-old woman has since been discharged from the hospital with non-life-changing injuries.
Numera Anwar, the principal of Westminster Academy, addressed the distressing incident, emphasizing its impact on the school community. In her statement, she noted, “This is a difficult time for our community.” The school was closed on Tuesday to facilitate a thorough investigation and to implement safety measures before resuming normal operations. Anwar reassured that the school would reopen the following day.
London police have stated that tests are currently being conducted on the substance involved in the attack. They have launched urgent inquiries to identify and apprehend those responsible for the incident, highlighting the community’s concerns for safety.
Attacks involving corrosive substances, including acid, have been a significant concern in the UK, particularly after a spike in incidents around the middle of the last decade. Following a decline in such attacks, there has been a resurgence in 2022, prompting law enforcement and community leaders to reinforce safety measures and awareness campaigns.
The shocking nature of this incident has raised alarms within the community, underlining the importance of ongoing efforts to combat violent attacks involving corrosive substances. Authorities continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of students and staff in educational environments.