Metropolitan Police in London have confirmed that a fifth person has died as a result of the attack outside UK Parliament earlier this morning.
Officials remain at the scene of the incident, which also left as many as 40 people injured when a man drove a car through pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, before exiting the vehicle with a knife – reportedly with the intent to enter the House of Commons – and attacking a police officer before being shot by authorities.
The death toll includes the attacked police officer and the alleged assailant.
The incident, which eye-witnesses described as “catastrophic,” began with the attacker driving a car across the Westminster Bridge, striking pedestrians including a group of school children visiting from France, and forcing at least one person to either fall or jump into the Thames River below.
British Prime Minister Theresa May labelled the act “sick and depraved” and expressed her condolences to the families of those affected.
“For those of us who were in Parliament at the time of this attack, these events provide a particular reminder of the exceptional bravery of our police and security services who risk their lives to keep us safe.”
The identity and background of the attacker is yet to be formally confirmed. Earlier information hastily spread by some UK media outlets has been debunked as false and misleading.
Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has stated she is not aware of any Australians being involved in the attack.
London Assistant Police Commissioner Mark Rowley confirmed that the family of the deceased officer had been notified, but would not confirm whether the alleged perpetrator was known to police.
“This is a day we planned for but hoped would never happen. Sadly it’s now a reality. We will continue to do all we can to protect the people of London.”
Authorities have commenced their investigation.
Source: The Age.
Photo: Anadolu Agency/Getty.
