A peaceful children's birthday celebration in Westminster turned to tragedy on Saturday afternoon when a speeding vehicle ploughed into the party before fleeing the scene, leaving one woman dead and multiple children injured.
The horrific incident occurred around 3:30 PM on a residential street where families had gathered for what should have been a joyful occasion. According to eyewitnesses, a dark-coloured car accelerated into the group before speeding away without stopping.
Community in Mourning After Senseless Tragedy
Emergency services rushed to the scene following multiple distressed calls from witnesses and party attendees. Paramedics worked desperately to save the woman, believed to be in her thirties, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Several children sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening but requiring hospital treatment. The young victims are currently receiving medical care and psychological support following the traumatic event.
Metropolitan Police Launch Urgent Investigation
Scotland Yard has launched a major investigation into the fatal collision, with detectives appealing for witnesses and any available dashcam or CCTV footage from the area.
Detective Chief Inspector Sam Price, leading the investigation, stated: "This was a devastating incident that has torn apart a family and traumatised a community. We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to identify the driver responsible for this cowardly act."
Police have established a significant cordon in the area as forensic teams conduct a thorough examination of the scene. The Metropolitan Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit is coordinating the manhunt for the missing vehicle and driver.
Local Residents Express Shock and Outrage
The tight-knit Westminster community has been left reeling from the tragedy, with neighbours describing their horror at witnessing the aftermath of the collision.
One local resident, who asked not to be named, told reporters: "We heard screaming and then saw complete chaos. Children were crying, people were trying to help the injured. The fact that someone could drive away from this is unimaginable."
Community leaders have organised support services for affected families and witnesses, while local councillors have called for immediate road safety reviews in residential areas.
The investigation continues as police urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.
