BBC
A 14-year-old schoolgirl has been seriously injured after a substance, believed to be acidic, was thrown at her at her school in west London, along with another pupil and a staff member.
The girl remains in hospital with potentially life-changing injuries following the incident at Westminster Academy, Westbourne Park, on Monday afternoon.
The Metropolitan Police said: “Urgent inquiries are under way to identify and arrest those responsible.”
A boy aged 16 remains in hospital with non life-changing injuries, and the staff member, a woman aged 27, has been sent home from hospital after also being hurt in the attack.
Two police officers were also taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service as a precaution after they reported feeling unwell.
Met Police officers attended the incident after being flagged down on Alfred Road by a school employee at about 16:40 BST.
Two crews and hazardous materials specialists from London Fire Brigade were also sent to the scene to make it safe.
A Met police spokesperson said: “Tests of the substance are ongoing. At this stage officers believe it to be acidic.”
‘Truly shocking’ attack
Westminster Academy is closed following the incident, with lessons taking place online and many staff working from home.
A Year 6 open morning has also been cancelled.
A number of crime scenes remain in place as investigations are carried out, the Met said.
Adam Hug, leader of Westminster City Council, described the attack as “truly shocking” and said the local authority was assisting the school.
“The council has been in touch with Westminster Academy and we will provide educational psychologists and any other support to help children through what is a traumatic ordeal.
“Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected.”
He added: “Clearly this attack will be unsettling for the whole academy and the wider community, and 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.”
