Authorities Looking at Two Terror Attacks in London

By: Laura Steiner

Authorities in London, UK are investigating two terrorist attacks. Shortly after 10:30 p.m. local time, Saturday a white van slammed into pedestrians walking on London Bridge.  London Ambulance Service reports as many as 20 have injured, with one fatality so far.

The second attack happened a short distance away in the popular district Burrough Market.  An assailant reportedly entered a bar, stabbed a waitress in the neck and in the back.  According to an eyewitness account published by the Telegraph, one suspect ran up and down shouting “this is for Allah.”

The Metropolitan Police declared them a terrorist attack shortly after midnight local time.  They have established a casualty bureau at: 0800 096 1233 or:020 7158 0198 if residents are concerned about friends/ loved ones. They are advising through Twitter not to call 999 unless it’s an emergency.    Police request anyone with videos, and images of tonight’s incidents to upload them to this link.

Three hospitals are under lockdown.  They are: Guy’s, St. Thomas, and Evelaine.  All are in the immediate area of London Bridge.

Several media outlets are reporting police believe six have been killed, as well as three suspects.  The suspects were supposedly wearing what appeared to be mock suicide vests.  They believe there were no more than the three suspects.

Prime Minister Theresa May will convene a Cobra meeting tomorrow morning.  London Mayor Sadiq Khan will be attending.

Reaction from Trump, Trudeau, and Macron

US President Donald Trump has pledged his country’s support.  “Whatever the United States can do to help out in London, and the U.K., we will be there- We are with you.  God Bless,” he tweeted.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted out his greetings.  “Awful news from London tonight.”  He reminded Canadians who may have been caught up in it to call: 00800 2326-6831 or email sos@international.gc.ca.

French President Emmanuel Macron vows his support.  ” France stands by the UK today, more than ever. My thoughts are with the victims, and their families,” he said through the French embassy in the UK’s twitter account.

The attack comes two weeks after a bombing in Manchester killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert.  Grande is supposed to join other artists in a fundraising concert for those injured in that attack tomorrow in Manchester.