Key Takeaways
- A man has been arrested on suspicion of assault after an incident at Heathrow airport terminal 3 involving a "form of pepper spray"
- The incident occurred at a multistorey car park and resulted in several people being injured, with some taken to hospital
- The Metropolitan police are not treating the incident as terrorism and believe it involved a group of people known to each other
- An increased police presence will be maintained at Heathrow airport to ensure public safety
- Passengers are advised to allow extra time when travelling to the airport and to check with their airline for any queries
Introduction to the Incident
A disturbing incident occurred at Heathrow airport terminal 3, where a group of men allegedly attacked people with a "form of pepper spray" in a multistorey car park. The Metropolitan police were called to the scene at around 8:11am, and armed officers responded quickly to the report of the assault. The police have stated that one man has been arrested on suspicion of assault, and inquiries are ongoing to trace further suspects. The incident has caused concern among the public, but the police are working to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Police Response and Investigation
Commander Peter Stevens of the Metropolitan police has provided an update on the incident, stating that the police believe it involved a group of people known to each other, with an argument escalating and resulting in several people being injured. The police responded quickly to the scene, and an increased police presence will be maintained at Heathrow airport throughout the morning to continue inquiries and ensure public safety. The police have also stated that they are not treating the incident as terrorism, which will come as a relief to many. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are working to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
Emergency Services Response
The London ambulance service and London fire brigade also responded to the incident, with the ambulance service providing care to several patients. The fire brigade provided specialist assistance alongside multi-agency partners at the scene, but was stood down shortly after 10:30am. The emergency services worked together to respond to the incident and ensure that those affected received the necessary medical attention. The victims who were taken to hospital are not believed to have life-changing or life-threatening injuries, which is a positive update.
Impact on Heathrow Airport
The incident caused some disruption to traffic and public transport at Heathrow airport, but the terminal remained open throughout. Heathrow has advised passengers to allow extra time when travelling to the airport and to check with their airline for any queries. The airport’s teams are working with the emergency services to respond to the incident, and the police are doing their best to minimize any further disruption. The incident is a reminder of the importance of security and safety at major transportation hubs like Heathrow airport.
Public Reaction and Social Media
Footage of the incident was posted on social media, showing a man being handcuffed and ambulances, fire engines, and armed officers at the scene. The public has been reacting to the incident on social media, with many expressing concern and shock at the news. The police have thanked the public for their cooperation and understanding, and have reassured them that the incident is being fully investigated. The use of social media to share information and updates about the incident has been helpful in keeping the public informed, but it is also important to be cautious of speculation and misinformation.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The incident at Heathrow airport terminal 3 is a serious one, and the police and emergency services are working to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are doing their best to minimize any further disruption to the airport and its passengers. The public can be reassured that the police are taking the incident seriously and are working to keep them safe. As the investigation continues, it is likely that more information will come to light, and the police will provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, passengers are advised to allow extra time when travelling to the airport and to check with their airline for any queries.
