A Range Rover driver, reportedly under the influence of nitrous oxide, caused a shocking scene in Hounslow last night by crashing into a sewing machine store.
Incident Details
The incident occurred shortly before 10:30 PM on High Street, Hounslow. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the vehicle veer off the road before smashing into the shopfront of a local sewing machine store, causing significant damage to the storefront and interior.
Emergency Response
Police, fire crews, and paramedics attended the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as the store was closed at the time. The driver, described as being in their 30s, was detained by officers at the scene.
Driver Allegedly Under Influence
Witnesses claim the driver was inhaling from balloons moments before the crash, suggesting the use of nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as “laughing gas.” Police have confirmed they are investigating whether substance use contributed to the crash.
Damage Assessment
The shopowner, who arrived at the scene shortly after being notified, expressed dismay at the extensive damage:
“It’s devastating to see my livelihood like this. The windows are shattered, and some machines inside are completely destroyed,” they said.
Investigation Ongoing
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said:
“We were called to reports of a vehicle collision on High Street, Hounslow, at approximately 10:30 PM on 20 January 2025. A Range Rover collided with a shopfront, causing significant damage. A driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving under the influence of a substance. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Anyone with information or dashcam footage related to the incident is urged to contact 101, quoting incident number 4568/20Jan.
Further updates are expected as investigations continue.
