A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after four pedestrians were injured when a car mounted the pavement in London’s West End.
The incident occurred in Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho, at approximately 00:45 GMT on Wednesday.
The Metropolitan Police responded to reports of a car driving on the wrong side of the road in what they have described as an isolated incident, unrelated to terrorism.
Police found that the vehicle collided with four pedestrians, leaving one in a life-threatening condition. Authorities have confirmed that all four victims were injured, with one of them receiving critical care at a nearby hospital.
Forensic officers were seen at the scene earlier today, gathering evidence including shoes and clothing items scattered on the pavement.
Multiple police cordons have been established around Shaftesbury Avenue, and traffic has been diverted from the area while investigations continue.
The Met Police spokesperson confirmed that the driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder, and the investigation is ongoing.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy commented on the swift progress of the investigation. “Detectives are quickly progressing inquiries as part of this investigation.
It’s believed that the suspect was involved in an altercation at a nightclub prior to getting into his car and mounting the pavement,” Cundy said.
Authorities are working to establish the full details of the incident, including the events leading up to the car being driven on the wrong side of the road.
They are also exploring the possibility that the suspect’s actions were linked to the altercation at the nightclub, though further details have yet to be confirmed.
The four injured pedestrians, who have not been publicly identified, were all treated at the scene by emergency services before being taken to the hospital.
Their conditions are not yet clear, but the life-threatening injury sustained by one individual has raised concerns over the severity of the incident.
The road collision and its aftermath have left the usually bustling area of Shaftesbury Avenue in a state of shock, with local residents and businesses expressing their concerns.
Police have asked for any witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
London’s West End has seen similar incidents in recent years, prompting calls for increased safety measures.
The Metropolitan Police continue to assure the public that this was not a terrorist attack, and they are working diligently to understand the full extent of what led to the crash.
As of now, the arrested man remains in police custody, and further inquiries are underway.
