Moment car runs over person during chemical attack night of carnage

01 February 2024 , 11:23

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An image taken from CCTV of the incident

A man has been filmed driving his car at people during a chemical attack in south London.

Police have branded the scenes in Clapham "horrific" after they left a mum and her two children injured. They were among the six victims who were taken to hospitals on Wednesday evening, while a further person was treated at the scene. Five officers also needed treatment. Police have now said that a “corrosive substance” was thrown during what the fire brigade stated was a “chemical incident”.

Footage taken at the scene and published by Sky News appears to show a man running around a car before getting inside while a woman and a child in front of the vehicle are seen holding their faces.

The driver then appears to hit someone with the car. The driver stops and gets out before opening the back door to remove a child who appears to be thrown to the ground. Later video shows neighbours coming out from other properties and chasing the man down the road.

The Met Police has said it is searching for a suspect following the chemical attack. "A manhunt is under way to trace a suspect after a corrosive substance was thrown at people in Lambeth last night," the force said. "Police are urgently appealing for anyone with information to come forward to help with the investigation."

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Giving an update on the condition of the victims, Superintendent Gabriel Cameron said: "Firstly, I want to acknowledge the considerable public concern following this terrible incident, and update on the injuries suffered by the victims. The woman, who is aged 31, and her two daughters - aged eight and three - all remain in hospital. While none of their conditions are life-threatening, the injuries to the woman and younger girl could be life-changing. It may be some time before hospital staff are able to say how serious that might be.

A person can be seen getting out of the car

"I am sure the public will join me in saying they are in our thoughts and we wish them the fullest possible recovery. Three women - two in their 30s and one in her 50s – who were injured when they bravely came to the aid of the family, have all been discharged from hospital with minor burns injuries. A man in his 50s who also helped declined hospital treatment for minor injuries he suffered.

"Five officers who were injured as they responded have all been treated and have left hospital. All these members of the public, and my officers, deserve enormous recognition and praise for coming to the aid of this woman and children in what must have been a terrifying scenario. We will provide them with all the support we can. I also want to commend nearby hotel staff after victims and officers sought refuge and water there following the incident."

Tim Hanlon