Police Investigation Launched After Car Ploughs Into Crowd on New Year’s Eve in Primrose Hill

A 40-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, causing grievous bodily harm, and possession of controlled drugs following a chaotic New Year’s Eve incident near Primrose Hill, London.

The incident, which occurred shortly after midnight, saw a car swerve towards crowds gathered to watch the fireworks display, striking two pedestrians.

Timeline of Events

At approximately 12:13 AM on January 1, Metropolitan Police were called to the junction of Primrose Hill Road and Regent’s Park Road after a car hit a 21-year-old pedestrian. The driver failed to stop and sped off along Primrose Hill Road, where a second pedestrian, a 59-year-old man, was also struck.

Police located the vehicle a short distance away at the junction of Primrose Hill Road and King Henry’s Road, where the suspect was arrested.

Injuries Reported

• The first pedestrian, a 21-year-old man, sustained minor injuries and did not require medical treatment.
• The second pedestrian, a 59-year-old man, was treated by paramedics and taken to hospital. His injuries were assessed as non-life-changing.

Police Response

Video footage captured at the scene shows panicked crowds running from Primrose Hill as the incident unfolded, with screams and shouts echoing in the background. Officers already deployed as part of New Year’s Eve policing operations responded quickly to the situation.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated:
“This is not being treated as a terrorist incident. An investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding the events.”

Historical Context and Security Concerns

The incident comes one year after the tragic stabbing of 16-year-old Harry Pitman on Primrose Hill during last year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. Pitman was fatally stabbed in the neck as crowds gathered to view the fireworks.

Following Pitman’s death, enhanced security measures were implemented in the area, including restricting access to Primrose Hill during peak times and setting up a Safety Advisory Group involving the Metropolitan Police and The Royal Parks.

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Local traders and residents have raised concerns about crime levels in the area, though officials have maintained that Harry’s death was an isolated incident.

Ongoing Investigation

Police are urging anyone with information, dashcam footage, or CCTV evidence from the area to come forward as the investigation continues.

This incident has once again highlighted the challenges of managing large gatherings in central London and the importance of enhanced safety measures during public celebrations. Further updates will be provided as details emerge.