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Six people have been taken to hospital after staff at the McDonald’s restaurant in Highbridge Retail Park were reportedly assaulted with a chemical substance, prompting a major emergency response this evening.
The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that three ambulances, three hazardous area response team (HART) vehicles, a paramedic car, and a rapid response vehicle were deployed to Highbridge Street, Waltham Abbey, shortly after 7:00pm.
A spokesperson said:
“Six patients were conveyed to hospital — three to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow and three to North Middlesex Hospital.”
Protective Suits Deployed
As of 7:30pm, eyewitnesses have reported seeing emergency workers in protective suits, with the McDonald’s restaurant taped off and at least five ambulances, two fire crews, and multiple police officers on the scene.
The nature of the chemical involved has not yet been publicly confirmed. The incident is being treated as a serious assault, and investigations are ongoing.
Public Response and Safety
The public is advised to avoid the area while emergency services continue to operate.
Police have not yet issued a formal statement, but are expected to update shortly as they gather more details.
