Man released in museum crash inquiry
Image copyright @StefanoSutter A man arrested following a crash outside London’s Natural History Museum has been released under investigation, police said.
The 47-year-old had been questioned on suspicion of dangerous driving.
Eleven people suffered non-life threatening injuries in the incident, involving a Black Toyota Prius, in South Kensington on Saturday.
The Metropolitan Police said it was not “terrorist-related” and is appealing for witnesses.
London Ambulance Service said the people it treated – including the suspected driver – had mostly sustained head and leg injuries. Nine were taken to hospital.
The Met said none of the injuries was believed to be life changing and the majority of those hurt had been discharged by Saturday night.
Saturday’s incident at about 14:20 BST on Exhibition Road initially sparked panic in an area popular with families and tourists.
Armed police were deployed and video footage quickly emerged showing a man, believed to be the driver, being restrained on the ground.
However, the Met later said its inquiry was “entirely a road traffic investigation”.
Det Con Darren Case, from the force’s roads and transport team, said he appreciated “the concern and alarm this incident caused”.
“Enquiries have established that this incident is not terrorist related and I’d like to thank those who came to assist the injured,” he said.
As well as the Natural History Museum, the area is also home to the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Image copyright Reuters Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted her thanks to first responders and members of the public, adding: “My thoughts are with the injured.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan also tweeted his thanks and hopes for a “swift recovery” for those injured.
“For Londoners and visitors planning to visit our excellent museums and attractions in the area, please be assured they will be open as usual tomorrow.”
The fiance of singer Pixie Lott, Oliver Cheshire, was one of those who held down the driver of the car involved in the incident.
He later tweeted:
The current terror threat in the UK is at “severe” – the second highest level – meaning an attack is highly likely.
Police say anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 020 8543 5157.
Read more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-41541165
