A major multi-agency emergency operation is underway this evening along the River Thames near Chelsea Embankment, following reports of a person seen entering the water.
The alarm was raised shortly after 7:30pm, prompting a large-scale response from emergency services including the London Fire Brigade (LFB), London Ambulance Service (LAS), and the Metropolitan Police. The National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter was also deployed to provide aerial support.
Fire Boats and Lifeboats Deployed
Fire crews dispatched a specialist fire boat to the scene, while lifeboat teams from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) launched from central London to assist with the ongoing search.
Eyewitnesses reported a strong emergency services presence along the embankment, including flashing blue lights and officers coordinating efforts from both land and river.
A source for the London Fire Brigade confirmed:
“We were called at 7:36pm to reports of a person in the water near Chelsea Embankment. Crews, including our fire boat, are currently assisting in the search along with partners from other emergency services.”
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Thermal Drones and HAART Teams Join the Search
Specialist drone units using DJI M30T drones equipped with thermal imaging have been deployed to scan the river for any signs of a heat signature. HAART (Hazardous Area Response Team) medics are also assisting using thermal binoculars downstream.
The Met Police Marine Unit is conducting a bank-to-bank search, assisted by RNLI lifeboats, as fears mount that light is rapidly fading and conditions are becoming more challenging.
Reports of Second Person in Water Near Albert Bridge
A separate search was launched near Albert Bridge following reports of a second person possibly in the water. It remains unclear whether the two incidents are linked.
UKNIP has contacted both the Metropolitan Police and HM Coastguard for confirmation and further details.
Area Cordoned Off — Public Asked to Stay Clear
Officers have cordoned off parts of the Chelsea Embankment as they work to establish how the individual came to be in the river. Members of the public are urged to avoid the area to allow crews to operate safely.
This is a developing story, and more information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.
