Armed police descended on Heathrow Airport after a pepper spray assault left 21 people injured, including a young child, in a major security incident.
Details of the Terminal 3 Car Park Attack
The disturbance unfolded in the early hours of Sunday morning, 7th December 2025. Metropolitan Police officers were called to the multi-storey car park at Heathrow's Terminal 3 just after 8 am. The attack occurred inside a lift, where a substance believed to be pepper spray was deployed.
Emergency services treated a total of 21 individuals at the scene. Among the injured was a three-year-old girl, who received medical attention but did not require hospitalisation. While most victims were treated on-site, five people were taken to hospital for further care. Authorities have confirmed that none of the injuries are considered life-threatening or life-changing.
Arrest and Police Investigation
A 31-year-old man was swiftly arrested in connection with the assault and remains in police custody as inquiries continue. Investigators are meticulously reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with witnesses to piece together the full sequence of events.
Commander Peter Stevens of the Metropolitan Police provided crucial context, stating the core incident is understood to be a robbery. According to the police assessment, a woman had her suitcase stolen by a group of four men. The suspects allegedly sprayed the substance in her direction while inside the lift, affecting numerous bystanders in the vicinity.
Public Reassurance and Ongoing Inquiry
Commander Stevens moved to reassure the public, emphasising that investigators believe this to be an isolated incident with no general threat to the wider community. He added that the individuals directly involved in the robbery are suspected to have been known to each other.
The incident caused significant disruption at one of the world's busiest airports, highlighting security challenges in public areas. The police investigation remains active, focusing on apprehending any further suspects and understanding the precise motives behind the violent robbery attempt.
