In a horrifying incident that unfolded on the evening of January 31, 2024, a suspected acid attacker is on the run after assaulting a woman, her two young daughters, and several bystanders in Clapham, London.
The traumatic episode occurred at around 7:25 PM on Lessar Avenue, opposite Clapham Common. According to witnesses, the attacker, believed to be known to the woman, had initially been involved in an argument with her. The altercation escalated when he viciously doused the mother and her children with a corrosive substance.
As the substance made contact with the victims, they screamed in agony, with the mother crying out, “I can’t see, I can’t see.” Passers-by immediately rushed to their aid, providing assistance and trying to alleviate their pain. The mother’s lips reportedly turned black, and her face suffered severe burns, leading to concerns about her vision.
A witness who poured water over the victims as the assailant fled the scene recounted the horrifying events, stating that they had observed the woman arguing with the suspect before the attack took place. According to eyewitnesses, the family had been inside a white car with the man before they both exited the vehicle and began fighting.
In a shocking turn of events, the attacker attempted to run over the woman, and there was a little baby girl banging on the car door on the man’s side. He opened the door, took the baby, and slammed her onto the ground twice, causing significant harm.
In the aftermath of the incident, nine people sustained injuries, with eight of them requiring hospital treatment. Among the injured, a child was reported to have a burn mark under her eye. All three victims, including the woman and her two daughters, remain hospitalized. While their conditions are not deemed life-threatening, the severity of their injuries could potentially be life-changing.
Furthermore, three individuals who came to the family’s aid, described as two women in their 30s and one in her 50s, suffered minor burns but have been discharged from the hospital. An additional man in his 50s, who also assisted, declined hospital treatment for minor injuries.
During the attack, five police officers sustained injuries while responding to the scene, but their injuries were fortunately minor. Three officers have been discharged from the hospital after receiving medical attention.
As authorities launched a manhunt to locate the suspect, a police cordon was established at the crime scene on Lessar Avenue, and a substantial investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this horrific attack. The London Ambulance Service treated and transported the injured to hospitals.
The substance used in the attack is believed to be a corrosive one, and tests are ongoing to confirm its composition. The National Police Air Service is aiding in the pursuit of the assailant.
The Clapham community and emergency responders have demonstrated immense courage and support for the victims during this distressing incident. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities appealing to the public for information that could assist in the arrest of the suspect.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police immediately at 101, quoting reference CAD 7790/31 Jan. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
