Armed Response at Heathrow Terminal 3
Armed police rushed to Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 multi-storey car park early this morning following a major incident. Reports claim multiple people were assaulted, with several victims sprayed with a substance believed to be pepper spray by a group of men who fled the scene.
The Met Police confirmed one man was arrested at around 8:11am on suspicion of assault and remains in custody as investigations continue.
Transport Locked Down – Chaos on Roads and Rails
Travel chaos erupted as Heathrow tunnels were closed and public transport came to a halt. London Underground and Elizabeth Line services were suspended, affecting routes through Heathrow, Shenfield to Abbey Wood, and Terminal 4 to 5. Heathrow Express trains running between London Paddington and Terminal 5 were also disrupted.
Bus drivers inside the station were told to stay put and not leave their vehicles. The short stay car park entrance was blocked, causing massive traffic jams. The M4 southbound spur to Heathrow was also shut as police responded.
National Rail reopened lines later but warned of delays and cancellations continuing until around midday. The airport urged travellers to allow extra time and check with airlines.
Official Statements and Eyewitness Accounts
“Police are in attendance at Heathrow Airport while we investigate the circumstances around the assault of a number of people this morning,” said a Met Police spokesperson.
“Officers responded quickly. There will be an increased police presence throughout the morning to ensure public safety. This is not being treated as a terrorist incident.”
Commander Peter Stevens added, “We believe the incident involved a group known to each other, with a heated argument leading to injuries.”
A Heathrow spokesman said: “Our teams are responding alongside emergency services in Terminal 3. We will update shortly.”
London Fire Brigade confirmed firefighters remain at the scene, with London Ambulance Service treating victims at the site before hospital transfers. Injuries aren’t believed to be life-threatening.
One frustrated driver trapped in the chaos wrote on social media: “Who knows what’s happening at Heathrow T3, stuck here for nearly an hour with armed police searching every car about.”
Passengers and Commuters Left in the Dark
Confused passengers vented online about halted trains and suspended services. Many questioned the cause of cancellations and delays at Britain’s busiest airport during the busy pre-Christmas travel period.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact police quoting CAD 1803 7 DEC.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
