Two Teenagers Hospitalized After Suspected Acid Attack Outside West London School

 

Two teenagers are in the hospital after a suspected acid attack outside Westminster Academy in west London, with one victim suffering potentially life-altering injuries. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when a corrosive substance was thrown at students and a staff member as they were leaving the school.

According to police, a 14-year-old girl is receiving treatment for injuries that may be "potentially life-changing." A 16-year-old boy was also injured in the attack, though his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A third victim, a 27-year-old woman, has been discharged from the hospital after being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Authorities are conducting tests on the substance, which they believe to be acidic. London police have launched an urgent investigation to identify and arrest those responsible.

Numera Anwar, the principal of Westminster Academy, expressed deep concern for the victims and the community, calling the attack a "distressing incident" involving an "acid-like corrosive substance." She confirmed that the assault took place outside the school premises.

"The school was closed on Tuesday to allow for a thorough investigation," Anwar said, adding that safety measures will be in place when the school reopens.

This attack adds to growing concerns over the rise in violent assaults involving corrosive substances in the UK, particularly in London. The use of such substances had seen a resurgence in recent years. The city has also experienced an increase in teenage violence, including knife crime and shootings. In July, a 15-year-old boy was fatally shot near the scene of Monday's attack.

Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug condemned the attack as "truly shocking" and pledged to work with the police to support the school and local community.

Two police officers who responded to the scene were also hospitalized after feeling unwell but were later confirmed to be in stable condition. Multiple crime scenes have been established as part of the ongoing investigation.