Armed police were forced to discharge their weapons during a terrifying confrontation with a man brandishing a shovel outside a Westminster primary school on Tuesday morning.
The dramatic incident unfolded at St. George's Hanover Square Primary School, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a massive emergency service response.
Chaos at the School Gates
According to eyewitness accounts, the situation escalated rapidly when a man described as being in his 30s approached the school grounds while wielding a large gardening shovel in a threatening manner. School staff immediately activated security protocols and alerted authorities.
"We heard shouting from the playground area," one parent recounted. "Then we saw teachers urgently shepherding children back inside the building. The atmosphere was absolutely terrifying."
Armed Response and Shots Fired
Metropolitan Police firearms officers arrived at the scene within minutes, finding the man still armed and behaving aggressively. After attempts to de-escalate the situation failed, officers made the difficult decision to discharge their weapons.
London Ambulance Service paramedics treated the suspect at the scene before transporting him to a central London hospital. His current condition remains undisclosed, though police have confirmed he sustained injuries.
School Lockdown and Community Impact
The school was immediately placed on lockdown during the incident, with children kept safely inside classrooms while the situation unfolded outside. Parents received urgent notifications via the school's communication system.
"No children or school staff were physically harmed during this frightening ordeal," a school spokesperson confirmed. "However, we recognise the significant emotional impact this will have on our school community."
Investigation Underway
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched a mandatory investigation into the shooting, standard procedure for all police firearms discharges in the UK.
Detective Chief Superintendent Owain Richards addressed media concerns, stating: "Our officers faced a rapidly developing situation where they believed there was an immediate threat. We have referred the matter to the IOPC in line with standard protocols."
Local councillors have promised a full review of school security measures in the wake of the incident, while support services have been made available to affected children, parents, and staff members.
