A 35-year-old man has been arrested on Thursday on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm following a suspected acid attack outside Westminster Academy in west London on Monday.
The incident occurred shortly after 4:40 PM in Alfred Road, where two young victims—a 14-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy—were approached by a man who threw a corrosive substance at them before fleeing the scene.
The attack left the 14-year-old girl with injuries described as “potentially life-changing,” prompting her to return to the hospital after being briefly discharged by doctors.
In contrast, the 16-year-old boy has since been released from the hospital, as his injuries were deemed “not as severe as the girl’s.”
A member of the school staff also sustained injuries while attempting to provide first aid to the victims.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest took place early Thursday morning, with the suspect currently in custody.
Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who is leading the investigation, expressed the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
He stated, “The investigation team has been working tirelessly to piece together the events in which two young victims, aged 16 and 14, were approached outside the school by a lone man who threw a substance at them before fleeing.”
Detective Superintendent Ware emphasized the ongoing efforts of the police to ensure community safety, “We will maintain a visible policing presence outside the school and will continue to work closely with the school and local authority.”
He also called for the public’s assistance, urging anyone with information to contact the investigations team at 020 7175 4652 or Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, quoting CAD 4987/30SEP.
“Mr. Ware added: “If you were in the vicinity of Alfred Road around the time of the attack and have dashcam footage that could prove key to our investigation, we ask that you urgently get in touch with us.”
The police are keen to gather all relevant information to ensure justice is served for the victims of this distressing incident.
