Acid Attack on 14-Year-Old Girl Sparks School Dispute Probe
Police are hunting for answers after a horrifying acid attack left a 14-year-old girl with serious injuries outside Westminster Academy in Paddington, central London. The attack, which happened Monday afternoon, is believed to be linked to a school dispute, her family has revealed.
Victim’s Family Speaks Out
The girl’s grandmother, Bridget McFarlane, called the incident “traumatic” but said police are closing in on the culprit. “The police have details and are investigating. They kind of know who it is. It’s a dispute with somebody at school,” she told MailOnline. The girl was briefly released from hospital but was readmitted for further treatment, with her recovery still uncertain.
The victim’s father, Corey McFarlane, described his daughter’s injuries as severe and urged anyone with information to come forward. “Words cannot express the shock, pain, and trauma she is going through – physically and emotionally,” he said. He has also launched a fundraiser to cover urgent medical costs, seeking community support to aid surgeries, rehabilitation, and mental health care.
Attack Details: E-Scooter Escape and Teacher Injured
On Monday, a tall, slim Black man in dark clothing threw a corrosive substance at the girl and a 16-year-old boy, who is not a student of Westminster Academy. A 27-year-old teacher who rushed to help was also hurt in the attack. The suspect fled on an e-scooter, heading from Alfred Road towards Harrow Road near Paddington Station.
Metropolitan Police have urged drivers with dashcam footage to check for anything that could help identify the attacker. Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis said officers were alerted during a routine patrol and believe the victims were approached by a lone masked attacker dressed in dark clothes.
School and Community Respond
Westminster Academy closed on Tuesday but reopened Wednesday with counselling services for students. Principal Numera Anwar described the attack as “distressing” but reassured families that support is being provided and authorities are involved.
Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug called the incident “truly shocking” and pledged support, including educational psychologists, to help the school and wider community cope with the trauma.
Police Appeal: Help Bring Attacker to Justice
The Met Police have made no arrests yet and are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information about the attack is urged to call 101 quoting reference CAD 4987/30Sep. Tips can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
