On September 30, 2024, a shocking incident unfolded at a school in west London when a suspected acid attack left a 14-year-old girl with serious injuries. The event occurred around 4:42 PM at Alfred Road, prompting a swift response from the Metropolitan Police, paramedics, and the London Fire Brigade.
According to reports, school staff alerted the emergency services after the attack. Upon arrival, first responders found three victims, including two students and a staff member. The 14-year-old girl, who has not been named, was taken to the hospital and is currently being treated for injuries that may change her life forever.
Another victim, a 16-year-old boy, was also hospitalized. Fortunately, his injuries are not considered life-threatening, and he is expected to recover. A 27-year-old woman, believed to be a member of the school staff, was treated at the scene and later discharged, which is a relief for her family and colleagues.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Parents and students expressed their fears about safety in schools, with many calling for increased security measures to protect children from such violent acts. “It’s terrifying to think something like this could happen at our school,” one parent commented. “We trust that our children are safe while they learn, and this breaks that trust.”
School officials have not yet released a statement addressing the attack but are likely working closely with authorities as investigations continue. Police have stated that they are taking the incident very seriously and are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.
This incident highlights a growing concern about violence in schools, particularly involving harmful substances like acid. Acid attacks are a rare but devastating form of violence that can have lifelong physical and psychological effects on victims. Advocacy groups are urging for more awareness and preventive measures to protect students.
As investigations unfold, the community will be watching closely, hoping for justice for the victims and assurance that steps will be taken to prevent such tragic events in the future.
“No arrests have been made and police are investigating,” the Met Police said in a statement.
“Tests of the substance are ongoing. At this stage officers believe it to be acidic. Urgent enquiries are underway to identify and arrest those responsible.
“A number of crime scenes are in place.”
The school in a statement said;
“Westminster Academy, is closed today due to unforeseen circumstances”.
“Students will resume lessons through online learning”.