A man has been taken into custody following a disturbance at Heathrow Airport, where several individuals were reportedly assaulted with a substance believed to be pepper spray.
Armed Response to Terminal Three Car Park
The incident unfolded on Sunday, 7 December 2025, at approximately 08:11 am. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that armed officers were dispatched to the multi-storey car park at Terminal Three following reports of an assault on multiple people.
A police statement detailed that a group of men sprayed a number of individuals with what is thought to be a form of pepper spray before fleeing the scene. Officers arrested one man on suspicion of assault. He remains in police custody as enquiries continue to locate other suspects involved.
Victims Treated for Non-Life Threatening Injuries
The London Ambulance Service attended the scene and transported the victims to hospital. Authorities have stated that their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
Commander Peter Stevens of the Metropolitan Police addressed the incident, stating: "At this stage, we believe the incident involved a group of people known to each other, with an argument escalating and resulting in a number of people being injured." He confirmed that the event is not being treated as terrorism.
Commander Stevens added that officers responded swiftly and that there would be an increased police presence at Heathrow throughout the morning to continue inquiries and reassure the public.
Ongoing Travel Disruption and Service Updates
The incident caused significant initial disruption to transport links serving the airport. While a slip road off the M4 that was closed has now reopened, and National Rail lines have resumed service, some delays persist.
Passengers are advised that Elizabeth Line services are still experiencing disruption. Heathrow Airport is urging travellers to allow extra time for their journeys and to check directly with their airline for the latest information.
The London Fire Brigade also attended the scene after being called at 08:14 am to assist other emergency services.
