A shocking incident unfolded outside Westminster Academy, located in west London, when a 35-year-old man was arrested following the suspected acid attack on two teenagers and a teacher. This distressing event occurred on a typical school day, just as students were departing. The attacker allegedly approached the victims on Monday afternoon, throwing the corrosive substance before fleeing the scene on an e-scooter.
The attack left the 14-year-old girl, Teagan McFarlane, with severe burns across her face, hands, neck, and eye. Her injuries have been described as potentially life-changing. Meanwhile, her 16-year-old family member sustained non-life-threatening injuries and has since been discharged from the hospital. A 27-year-old teacher, who rushed to aid the students, also sustained injuries during her brave attempt to help.
After the attack, Teagan was initially stabilized and discharged but later required readmission to the hospital for treatment of her wounds. Her father, Corey McFarlane, expressed his heartbreak over the incident, describing her as traumatized and fearful about her long-term recovery. He explained, "words cannot express the shock, pain, and trauma she is going through, both physically and emotionally." Teagan now wishes to be homeschooled as she grapples with the reality of her injuries.
Authorities believe the incident may be linked to some form of school dispute, according to Bridget McFarlane, Teagan's grandmother. Speculations have arisen about potential motives, yet no official confirmation has been made. The Metropolitan Police launched a manhunt immediately after the incident, working tirelessly to identify and apprehend the suspect. Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis indicated prior to the arrest, "A thorough investigation is well underway, and my officers will not stop until the suspect is found and arrested."
Following the arrest on Thursday, which was made after four long days of searching, Detective Superintendent Scott Ware announced, "A man was arrested on Thursday morning and remains in custody." He also reiterated the importance of maintaining community safety, pledging increased police presence around the school area. He stated, "We will continue to work closely with the school and local authority."
"We urge anyone who may have witnessed this horrific attack or has dashcam footage from the time to come forward to help with the investigation," he added.
Principal Numera Anwar of Westminster Academy released a statement expressing her concern, highlighting the traumatic nature of the attack for all involved. "One pupil, a teacher, and a member of the public have been injured. We are offering support to families and relatives of all involved during this difficult time for our community,” she said, later announcing the closure of the school for safety reassurances and to assist with the investigation.
Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug condemned the attack as "truly shocking" and confirmed the council's commitment to supporting students and staff with educational psychologists and resources to help them navigate the aftermath of such trauma. He stated, "We will work with police to provide reassurance and whatever support we can for those affected."
Local residents and parents have expressed their fears and concerns following the incident. Many are left questioning the safety of their children attending school and have called for greater measures to protect students and establish secure environments at educational institutions. Teagan's father has even set up a GoFundMe page aiming to raise £9,000 for her medical and recovery costs, capturing the urgent need for support and resources for his daughter as she begins her long path to healing.
This incident shines a light on the pressing issues of violence among youths and the shocking reality of such acts occurring even within the vicinity of schools. The community and authorities are left grappling with the aftermath, seeking justice and assurance as they rally around the affected, hoping for swift recovery and justice for the victims of this unimaginable act.
