CHEMICAL ATTACK
Schoolgirl, 14, left with horror injuries after lone attacker threw ACID over kids before staff injured trying to help
The suspect rode to and from the scene on an e-scooter
A SCHOOLGIRL has been left with horror injuries after a lone attacker allegedly threw acid over kids.
Cops have launched a manhunt for a male suspect after the chilling attack outside the Westminster Academy in Notting Hill, west London yesterday.
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An "acidic" substance was launched at pupils and school staff, Scotland Yard said.
Cops a now hunting a suspect they have described as a tall, slim, black male.
He was wearing dark clothing with his face obscured, possibly by a mask or balaclava, the forced added.
The alleged thrower also rode an e-scooter to and from the scene.
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Horror hit the main road outside the school building as pupils and teachers headed home on Monday.
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Officers on a routine patrol were flagged down by staff following the terror at 4.42pm yesterday.
Paramedics and the London Fire Brigade (LFB) scrambled to the scene.
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Three people were found injured - a 16-year-old boy, a 14-year-old girl and a woman, 27.
The girl, whose injuries may potentially be life-changing, remains in hospital.
The boy, whose injuries are not life-threatening, also remains on a ward.
In an update this morning, police said the woman has been discharged in from hospital.
Two cops were also taken to be checked over by doctors as a precaution after they reported feeling unwell.
Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis said: “From our enquiries so far we believe the two young victims were on Alfred Road when they were approached by a lone suspect who threw a substance at them before fleeing down Harrow Road.
Truly shocking attack on school pupils
Adam Hug
“A member of staff bravely and selflessly rushed to provide first aid to the two victims, sustaining injuries herself in the process. Fortunately she has now left hospital.
“I know how incredibly concerning this incident is to parents and pupils and the wider Westminster community.
"We are in close contact with the school and local authority, and I can assure people that a thorough investigation is well under way, and that my officers will not stop until the suspect is found and arrested.
“If you have information that can help us, it is imperative that you tell us immediately.
"The area at the time was busy with people and cars. I am particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have captured dash cam footage that can help us establish what happened.”
Scotland Yard said tests are being carried out on the substance and at this stage they believe it to be acidic.
"Urgent enquiries are under way to identify and arrest those responsible," a spokesperson said.
LFB said: "Firefighters were mobilised to a chemical incident on Harrow Road in Westminster.
"Two teenagers and one adult woman sustained injuries from a chemical substance which Metropolitan Police Service believe to be acidic and were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.
"Firefighters assisted emergency service colleagues and worked to make the scene safe.
"The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers were called about this incident at 1650 and mobilised two fire engines and around 10 firefighters from North Kensington Fire Station, as well as specialist hazardous materials colleagues.
"The incident was over for firefighters by 1745.";
A number of crime cordons are still in place today.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information that could help police, should call 101 quoting ref CAD 4987/30 Sept.
To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
SCHOOL REMAINS CLOSED
The Westminster Academy remains closed today "due to unforeseen circumstances".
Head teacher Numera Anwar said: "This was a distressing incident which which took place after school hours when students and staff were were leaving the school site.
"We are offering support to families and relatives of all involved.
"This is a difficult time for our community and I took the decision to close the school today.
"This is to allow for a thorough investigation and to ensure the school can resume normally from tomorrow with all safety measures in place."
The head added they were focusing on the "welfare of the students" and support is available for those who need it.
Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug said: "This is a truly shocking attack on school pupils and a member of staff.
"Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected. The council has been in touch with Westminster Academy.
"We will provide educational psychologists and any other support to help children through what is a traumatic ordeal.
"Clearly this attack will be unsettling for the whole academy and the wider community.
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"We will be working with police to provide reassurance and whatever support we can.
"We would urge anyone with information about what has happened to contact the police."
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