The Metropolitan Police have launched an urgent investigation following two separate crossbow attacks in the Shoreditch area, leaving two individuals injured. Fortunately, both victims have been discharged from the hospital.
The incidents occurred on Monday, March 4, and Thursday, March 14, with both attacks linked due to their nature and location. The first victim, a 44-year-old, was targeted around 7:44 pm, sustaining a head injury as she crossed the road. The second attack involved a 20-year-old man who suffered a neck injury. Despite the severity of the assaults, neither victim sustained life-threatening or life-changing injuries.
In response to these alarming events, there will be an increased police presence in the Shoreditch area over the weekend. Collaborating with Tower Hamlets Council, law enforcement officials are pooling resources to expedite the investigation.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, emphasized the ongoing efforts to apprehend the perpetrator(s), stating, “There are significant efforts to find whoever carried out these assaults, and we are committed to keeping the community updated over the coming days, as we know how worrying this is.
The investigation, led by detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and supported by neighbourhood teams and specialist officers, is actively pursuing various leads, including witness testimonies, CCTV footage analysis, and forensic examination.
The Metropolitan Police urge anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward by calling 101, quoting CAD 6663/14 Mar or Operation Goldwater. Alternatively, individuals can provide anonymous tips to the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.