Armed police officers have launched a major operation following a disturbing pepper spray attack at one of the UK's busiest transport hubs, which left 21 people requiring medical treatment.
Chaos in Terminal 3 Car Park
The incident unfolded on Sunday morning, around 8:11 am, within the multi-storey car park serving Heathrow Airport's Terminal 3. According to initial reports from the Metropolitan Police, the discharge of the irritant spray is believed to have followed an argument that escalated dramatically, during which a woman was robbed of her suitcase.
The London Ambulance Service responded swiftly to the scene, treating a total of 21 individuals for the effects of the spray. Among those affected was a three-year-old girl, highlighting the indiscriminate and dangerous nature of the attack. Five of the casualties were transported to hospital for further assessment; thankfully, all injuries have been confirmed as non-life-threatening.
Police Investigation and Arrest
In a significant development, officers have already arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of assault in connection with the Heathrow incident. However, the manhunt continues for other suspects believed to be involved. Detectives are actively appealing for witnesses or anyone with information, including dashcam or mobile phone footage from the car park at that time, to come forward.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police moved to reassure the public, stating that the incident is not being treated as terror-related. Early indications suggest that the people involved were known to each other, pointing towards a targeted dispute that spiralled out of control with severe consequences for bystanders.
Airport Operations and Aftermath
While the attack caused significant alarm and required a large emergency service response, airport operations at Heathrow were not severely disrupted. The focus remains on the police investigation and supporting the victims, some of whom were likely travellers beginning or ending their journeys.
This serious breach of public safety at a critical national infrastructure site will undoubtedly raise questions about security protocols in airport perimeter areas, such as public car parks. The Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command was informed as a matter of routine but has since stood down from leading the inquiry.
