An investigation is underway to locate a masked suspect who fled on an e-scooter after an acid attack at a school in west London. The incident occurred at Westminster Academy in Alfred Road around 4:40 pm on September 30.

Two students were targeted by a lone suspect who threw a substance, believed to be acidic, before fleeing the scene on Harrow Road. A 14-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy were injured in the attack. A teacher at the school put herself in harm’s way to provide first aid to the two victims.

The girl remains in hospital with injuries being treated as potentially life-changing. The boy was also hospitalized but his injuries were determined to be non-life-threatening. The 27-year-old teacher who assisted them was treated and has since been discharged.

Two police officers were also taken to hospital as a precaution after they reported feeling unwell. Both officers have now been discharged.

The suspect has been described by police as a tall, slim, black male wearing dark clothing, with his face obscured—possibly by a mask or balaclava. He was seen riding an e-scooter to and from the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Dean Purvis, leading the investigation, said: “Officers were on routine patrol when they were flagged down to this terrible incident. From our enquiries so far, we believe the two young victims were on Alfred Road when they were approached by a lone suspect who threw a substance at them before fleeing down Harrow Road.

DCI Purvis commended the bravery of the teacher who rushed to provide first aid despite sustaining injuries herself. He added: “For the 14-year-old girl, we might not know for some time how severe her injuries are, but at this time they are being treated as life-changing.

DCI Purvis emphasized the concern the incident has raised for parents, pupils, and the wider Westminster community, reassuring that a thorough investigation is underway. He urged anyone with information, particularly those with dashcam footage, to come forward.

He also acknowledged the response of the emergency services: “I would like to acknowledge the incredible bravery of all the emergency services who responded, including our London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade colleagues. Two officers were taken to hospital as a precaution after feeling unwell, but they are both well and have left the hospital.

The suspect remains at large, and police are continuing their investigation.

Westminster Academy has announced on their website that the school site was closed on Tuesday due to “unforeseen circumstances,” and students would continue lessons online.

Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting reference CAD 4987/30Sep, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.