A police boat crash into Westminster Bridge on Friday afternoon injured five officers, prompting a large emergency response in central London. The Metropolitan police confirmed the incident occurred at approximately 3:40pm, involving a vessel from the marine policing unit. Witnesses reported a loud bang as the boat struck the historic bridge, sending several officers into the water.
Details of the Police Boat Crash
The Marine Policing Unit boat was navigating the River Thames when it collided with Westminster Bridge. A Met spokesperson stated: “A number of officers entered the water but were recovered. Additional officers responded alongside the London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade.” All five injured officers are receiving treatment, with no members of the public involved or hurt.
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Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Responders from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) treated casualties on a moored boat at Westminster Pier. A large number of police, fire crews, and ambulances were on scene. A police helicopter and air ambulance circled above, while traffic across the bridge was halted by cordons at both ends.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Friday, ~3:40 PM |
| Location | Westminster Bridge, London |
| Injuries | 5 officers |
| Public Injuries | None reported |
| Responders | Met Police, LAS, LFB, RNLI, Air Ambulance |
Witness Accounts of the Incident
Cecilia Lusevic, 56, and her son Mateo Bilis-Lusevic, 12, from Chile, were on a tour boat north of Westminster Bridge. Mateo told the Press Association: “Two boats were riding extremely fast through the water. Suddenly, I heard a boom. Then three people went flying into the water.” He estimated the officers were in the water for about 10 minutes before someone threw a life ring.
Current Investigation and Next Steps
The Metropolitan Police said the circumstances will be “thoroughly reviewed,” but their priority is the wellbeing of the officers. The London Fire Brigade confirmed they responded alongside partner agencies, deploying their fire boat and three fire engines.
- Five officers injured after police boat hit Westminster Bridge.
- No public injuries reported; all officers recovered from water.
- Multiple agencies including RNLI and air ambulance responded.
- Traffic halted on Westminster Bridge during rescue operation.
- Investigation underway to determine cause of crash.
FAQ
What caused the police boat to crash into Westminster Bridge?
The exact cause is under investigation. Early reports suggest the boat was traveling at high speed when it struck the bridge. The Met Police will review all circumstances.
How many officers were injured in the Westminster Bridge boat crash?
Five officers were injured and are receiving medical treatment. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening at this stage.
Were any members of the public harmed in the incident?
No members of the public were involved or injured. The boat was a police vessel, and the incident was contained to the officers on board.