Police Boat Crashes into Westminster Bridge, Injuring Five... 2026

A police boat crashed into Westminster Bridge in central London on Friday afternoon, injuring five officers in a dramatic river incident. The Metropolitan police confirmed the collision occurred at approximately 3:40pm involving a vessel from the marine policing unit. Emergency services responded swiftly, with a number of officers entering the water before being recovered.

What Happened During the Westminster Bridge Police Boat Crash?

According to a Metropolitan police spokesperson, the boat from the marine policing unit struck the historic bridge, causing multiple officers to fall into the River Thames. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang as the police boat hit the structure. One onlooker, Mateo Bilis-Lusevic, a 12-year-old tourist from Chile, described seeing two boats traveling at high speed before hearing a boom and seeing three people thrown into the water.

The officers remained in the water for an estimated 10 minutes before being rescued. A life ring was thrown to assist one officer. The London ambulance service, London fire brigade, and Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) all attended the scene, treating casualties on a boat moored at Westminster Pier. A police helicopter and air ambulance circled overhead as traffic across the bridge came to a standstill.

Injuries and Response

Five officers were injured in the incident and are receiving medical treatment. At this stage, authorities do not believe any members of the public were involved or hurt. The Met spokesperson stated, "Our priority is the wellbeing of the officers involved." The circumstances of the collision will be thoroughly reviewed.

Emergency crews cordoned off both ends of Westminster Bridge, halting traffic. A mother and son visiting from Chile were evacuated from a tour boat after witnessing the crash. Cecilia Lusevic and her son were on the north side of the bridge when they heard the bang.

Key Facts and Comparison: Police Boat vs. Bridge Collision

Witness Accounts and Aftermath

Mateo Bilis-Lusevic told reporters, "I heard a boom. Then three people went flying into the water, and one of the people was really hurt." The quick response from multiple agencies likely prevented more serious injuries. The London fire brigade confirmed on X (formerly Twitter): "We’re responding to an incident on the #RiverThames near Westminster Bridge alongside partner agencies."

The police boat crash disrupted traffic and river activity, but normal operations have since resumed pending investigation.

Key Takeaways from the Westminster Bridge Incident

• Five officers were injured when a police boat struck Westminster Bridge.
• Multiple emergency services responded within minutes.
• No public injuries reported; officers being treated.
• Investigation into the cause is underway.
• Traffic and river traffic were temporarily halted.

FAQ: Police Boat Crash on Westminster Bridge

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