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Police are investigating after several people were reportedly pepper-sprayed by a group of men who later fled the scene. Officers were called at 8:11am to a multi-storey car park at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 following reports of multiple assaults, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The force said that “a number of people were sprayed with what appears to be a type of pepper spray” before the suspects escaped. Armed officers attended, and one man has been arrested on suspicion of assault. He remains in custody as police continue searching for additional suspects. The incident is not being treated as terrorism.
London Ambulance Service responded and took the victims to hospital, though their injuries are not considered life-threatening or life-changing. Traffic disruptions remain in the area, although Terminal 3 is still operational.
Commander Peter Stevens stated that early indications suggest the people involved knew each other and that an argument escalated, resulting in the injuries. He added that officers reacted swiftly and that an increased police presence would remain at Heathrow throughout the morning to reassure the public.
The London Ambulance Service declared a “significant incident” and fully deployed resources, with the situation still considered active. The London Fire Brigade also assisted and remains on scene.
Heathrow Airport has advised passengers to allow extra travel time and check with their airlines. Train and Tube services experienced delays, particularly on the Elizabeth Line and Piccadilly Line. National Rail reported that lines have reopened but some disruption and minor delays may continue until around 11:45am.
National Highways East noted that a serious incident in the Heathrow tunnel temporarily closed the M4 spur road southbound, though it has since reopened. Social media posts from travellers mentioned vehicle searches and long queues around Terminal 3, with footage showing armed officers in a car park.
