A major emergency response was launched on the River Thames in central London after a police boat crash near Westminster Bridge, leaving four officers with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
A boat carrying armed officers crashed near the Houses of Parliament, leading to a section overlooking the iconic landmark being taped off. Five officers in total required medical attention, with a Metropolitan Police statement explaining that the incident occurred when a boat from the Met's marine policing unit struck Westminster Bridge while responding to a report of a person in the water near Battersea.
According to eyewitnesses, the police boat was travelling at high speed when it lost control and smashed into one of the bridge's arches. Three officers were thrown into the water, where they were recovered by nearby boats. The officers who were thrown into the water were wearing life jackets, which deployed and allowed them to float past Westminster Pier.
A large emergency services presence swarmed the scene, with several ambulances, fire crews, and police vehicles parked along Embankment while a helicopter and air ambulance circled overhead. Traffic was brought to a standstill, and buses and coaches were forced to reverse and find an alternative route.
The incident is being thoroughly reviewed, with the Metropolitan Police and partner agencies working to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision. Commanders have praised the quick-thinking and professionalism of those involved, which undoubtedly prevented any further injuries.
The four officers who remain in hospital are being given every support as they recover. No members of the public were injured in the incident, and the scene has since been cleared. The Port of London Authority is supporting the response by providing river traffic management assistance where needed.
Eyewitnesses described hearing an 'almighty bang' when the police boat struck the bridge, with one witness describing it as sounding like a car crash from around 10 metres away. Others reported seeing the officers being thrown into the water and described the scene as 'chaotic'.
As the investigation continues, the Metropolitan Police have thanked those river users who came to the aid of the officers, as well as other police and emergency service colleagues who immediately responded to the scene.
