Cop Hospitalised After Shocking Machete Attack in Leyton
A police officer is battling for his life after being brutally attacked with a machete during a vehicle stop in Leyton, East London.
Van Driver Refuses to Stop, Launches Savage Assault
Just after midnight on Thursday, 8 August, uniformed officers signalled for a van to pull over at Coopers Lane junction with Leyton High Road, E10. The van ignored the police and sped off, prompting a brief chase with sirens blazing.
The suspect finally stopped, but as officers approached the male driver, believed to be in his fifties, he launched a vicious attack with a machete.
Officer Stabbed Multiple Times, Uses Taser to Fend Off Assault
The young officer, in his thirties, was stabbed several times but bravely managed to draw his taser. He subdued the attacker and prevented further harm before colleagues arrested the suspect at the scene.
The injured officer was rushed to hospital where his condition is critical but stable. His family have been informed.
No Terror Link, Investigation Underway
The suspect, who did not need hospital treatment, has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and taken to an east London police station for questioning. Police say no one else is being sought and no other injuries have been reported.
Inspector Julia James of North East Command Unit said: “This was a sudden and brutal attack on a uniformed officer carrying out their duties. What began as a routine vehicle stop transformed very quickly and unexpectedly into an unprovoked weapon attack.”
“Our thoughts are with the injured officer and his family. I commend his bravery and resilience — despite being repeatedly stabbed, he used his taser to prevent further harm. This incident highlights the dangerous and courageous work police do every day.”
“I urge any witnesses to contact police via 101 quoting CAD3/8August or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
The investigation is ongoing and a crime scene remains in place.
