A man has been arrested on suspicion of assault after several people were allegedly sprayed with a “form of pepper spray” inside the multistorey car park at Heathrow Airport Terminal 3, according to the Metropolitan Police. Armed officers were deployed at around 8.11am following reports that multiple individuals had been attacked.
Police said a group of men reportedly used what is believed to be a type of pepper spray during an altercation before quickly leaving the scene. One man was arrested on suspicion of assault as inquiries continued to identify and trace additional suspects. Officers stated that the incident appears to have involved individuals who already knew one another.
Police stress no terror threat
Commander Peter Stevens confirmed that the altercation escalated into an assault, resulting in several injuries. He said the incident is not being treated as terrorism, adding that public concern is understandable given the high-profile location. He noted that police reacted swiftly and that an increased police presence would remain at Heathrow throughout the morning to support investigations and reassure travellers.
Emergency services treat injured passengers
The London Ambulance Service sent multiple crews to the airport, treating and transporting several victims to hospital. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. The London Fire Brigade also attended to provide specialised support alongside other agencies and were stood down shortly after 10.30am.
Footage shows armed officers on scene
Videos shared on social media showed a man being handcuffed as emergency vehicles filled the car park area. Ambulances, fire engines and armed police remained at the scene as authorities managed the aftermath of the chemical irritant release.
Heathrow warns of delays and urges extra travel time
A spokesperson for Heathrow Airport said its teams were working closely with emergency services and advised passengers to allow additional time when travelling to the airport. Terminal 3 remained open throughout the incident, although traffic and some public transport routes experienced temporary disruption.
The incident comes at a time when UK airports have increased visible security measures ahead of the busy winter travel season. Heathrow, in particular, has deployed additional patrols in recent months following concerns about crowd safety, rising antisocial behaviour in transport hubs, and isolated incidents involving chemical irritants across London. Police have reiterated that there is no broader security threat connected to today’s assault.
