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Chaos in Primrose Hill: Car Ploughs Into New Year’s Eve Crowd
A 40-year-old man has been arrested after a car swerved into crowds near Primrose Hill, London, shortly after midnight on New Year’s Eve. The shocking incident left two pedestrians injured and sparked a swift police response.
Crash Timeline and Arrest
At around 12:13 AM on January 1, Metropolitan Police were called to the junction of Primrose Hill Road and Regent’s Park Road. A car had struck a 21-year-old man before fleeing the scene. Moments later, the vehicle hit a 59-year-old man further along Primrose Hill Road. Police quickly found the car nearby and arrested the suspect at the junction of Primrose Hill Road and King Henry’s Road.
Injuries and Police Action
- The 21-year-old pedestrian suffered minor injuries and did not need hospital treatment.
- The 59-year-old man was treated by paramedics and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Video footage from the scene shows panicked crowds fleeing in terror as the car barreled through. Officers on duty for New Year’s Eve policing moved quickly to secure the location. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed: “This is not being treated as a terrorist incident. An investigation is underway to establish the full circumstances.”
Shadow of Last Year’s Tragedy Looms
This unsettling event comes just one year after 16-year-old Harry Pitman was fatally stabbed during New Year’s Eve celebrations at Primrose Hill. Following that tragedy, security measures were ramped up, including restricted access during peak times and formation of a Safety Advisory Group with the Met Police and The Royal Parks to prevent further incidents.
Local traders and residents remain worried about rising crime levels, though officials insist Harry Pitman’s death was an isolated case.
Investigation Ongoing – Police Call for Witnesses
Police are urging anyone with information, dashcam footage, or CCTV from the area to come forward. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing large crowds in central London during major events and underscores the need for stringent safety measures.
More updates will follow as the investigation unfolds.
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