A security guard at one of London's busiest hospitals is fighting for his life after being brutally stabbed while on duty in a shocking broad daylight attack.
The incident occurred at Charing Cross Hospital in Hammersmith, central London, on Tuesday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the medical community and raising urgent questions about safety at NHS facilities.
Emergency Response at Hospital Gates
Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of the stabbing just after 4 PM. Metropolitan Police confirmed they discovered a man in his 30s with multiple stab wounds.
"The victim, a security guard employed at the hospital, was treated at the scene before being rushed to a major trauma centre," a police spokesperson stated. "His condition is described as critical but stable."
Hunt for the Attacker
Police have launched a major manhunt for the perpetrator, who fled the scene before officers arrived. Forensic teams have been conducting extensive searches around the hospital perimeter.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, leading the investigation, appealed for witnesses: "This was a brutal attack on a member of staff simply doing their job protecting others. We need anyone with information to come forward immediately."
Hospital Security Under Scrutiny
The attack has sparked serious concerns about the safety of healthcare workers across London. Charing Cross Hospital, part of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, has implemented additional security measures following the incident.
A hospital spokesperson expressed their shock: "Our thoughts are with our colleague and his family during this terrible time. We're working closely with police and reviewing all security protocols."
Community Reaction
Local residents and hospital staff have expressed their horror at the attack. One regular visitor to the hospital described the scene as "chaotic" with multiple police vehicles and ambulances surrounding the entrance.
The incident comes amid growing concerns about violence against NHS staff, with healthcare unions calling for stronger protections for frontline workers.
