A British Transport Police officer was brutally stabbed in the head, face and leg as he tried to help others during the terror attack on London Bridge last night.
The on-duty officer was one of the first on the unfolding scene in the city centre bridge shortly at 10pm on Saturday June 3rd, after hearing calls from help from victims.
While trying to help another victim, the officer was stabbed in three different parts of his body and although his injuries are not life threatening, they are believed to be serious, the Telegraph reports.
A spokeswoman has said it is believed he was targeted by one of the terrorists who was shot dead and his family are with him as he receives treatment and support in a central London hospital.
Chief Constable Paul Crowther said:
Again, our thoughts and sympathies are with those who have been injured in and affected by this horrific incident, including one of our own.
We have implemented our strategic command structure and are working closely with the Metropolitan Police Service and other agencies in these early stages of the investigation.
We would ask the public to remain calm, vigilant and alert, and to report any suspicious behaviour to the police on 0800 789 321.
Another off duty police officer – who is a rugby player – was also seriously injured in last’s night’s shocking attack and is being treated in hospital.
Sky News reports he was the first police officer on the scene and bravely ‘took on all terrorists until he was forced to the ground’.
Armed police and emergency services were dispatched to London Bridge and Borough market after reports a van of a van swerving into pedestrians and stabbings taking place.
Prime Minister Theresa May has since offered her ‘huge gratitude’ to the emergency services and the Home Secretary Amber Rudd shared a message of thanks to authorities and condolences to victims.
She said:
I am extremely proud of and thankful to our police and emergency services who responded so swiftly and those who will work tirelessly as the investigation into this appalling act continues.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has also given a statement, slamming the ‘horrific’ incidents as ‘barbaric’ and ‘deliberate and cowardly’.
He added:
My thoughts are with everyone affected, and I’d like to thank the brave men and women of our emergency services who were first on the scene and will be working throughout the night.
Thoughts are with the victim’s families at this difficult time.
