Emergency services swarmed Golders Green in North London this afternoon following reports of an incident at a local bank branch. Multiple people were taken ill inside a NatWest bank on Golders Green Road, prompting a major response from police, fire crews, and paramedics.
Eyewitness Accounts and Initial Reports
Eyewitnesses described a significant emergency services presence centered around the NatWest branch, with a cordon established around the area. Reports from the scene suggest the incident is "allegedly a gas leak," though the Metropolitan Police have confirmed it is too early to determine whether the situation is suspicious.
Official Statements
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said: "Officers responded to reports of people feeling unwell inside a bank in Golders Green Road at around 15:35hrs on Friday, 8 May. Police, the London Fire Brigade, and the London Ambulance Service arrived within minutes, and the premises was evacuated. Several people were assessed at the scene by paramedics but did not require hospital treatment."
The statement continued: "It is too early to say if the incident is suspicious, or to know what has caused people to feel unwell. Specialist officers are conducting further enquiries at the scene, and we will provide further updates as soon as possible. We would ask people to avoid the area as a precaution in the meantime."
Fire Brigade Response
London Fire Brigade's Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: "Firefighters were called to reports of people feeling unwell at a bank on Golders Green Road in NW11. A number of people were experiencing a range of symptoms, which could indicate exposure to a chemical or other substance. Four fire engines and several specialist appliances were sent to the scene. Crews carried out a thorough search of the area using detection, identification, and monitoring equipment and have now confirmed there are no elevated levels of hazardous materials present. Firefighters remain on scene to provide support and assistance to the local community."
The Brigade received the call at 3.41pm, with crews dispatched from Euston, Bexley, West Hampstead, and Kentish Town fire stations. The situation was brought under control by 5.27pm, according to the service.
