Two police officers are recovering in hospital after a van was deliberately driven at them in what Police Scotland has called an attempted murder — the same day new footage emerged of a police boat flipping onto its side as it crashed into Westminster Bridge, leaving four more officers seriously injured.
The van attack happened on Glen Avenue in Larkhall, southeast of Glasgow, at about 2.10pm on Saturday. A white Renault Trafic van was driven at the officers as they carried out inquiries at a property, according to a Police Scotland spokesperson. Detective Inspector Gary Smillie said: “This was a deliberate and despicable attack on two officers who were simply carrying out their duties.”
“Two police officers hit by van in attempted murder; four more injured in Thames boat crash.”
Two male officers, aged 43 and 41, were taken to hospital. The 41-year-old has since been released, while the 43-year-old remains in a stable condition. The van was later recovered in Kirkstyle Place, Glassford. Police are searching for a white male suspect, 6ft tall, wearing dark shorts, a grey jumper and a beige baseball cap.
Earlier on Friday, four Metropolitan Police officers were seriously injured when their boat crashed into Westminster Bridge on the River Thames. New footage shown to Metro captures the moment the vessel veers into the bridge structure and flips on its side, with people visible in the water. A fifth officer was taken for treatment but later discharged.
Commander Nick John said: “Our thoughts are with all those involved, in particular our officers who were injured and those who responded in challenging circumstances. The four officers who remain in hospital have serious but non-life-threatening injuries.” He also thanked river users who came to the aid of the officers and emergency services, adding: “The quick-thinking and professionalism of all those involved undoubtedly prevented any further injuries.”
In the aftermath, ambulances, fire crews and police vehicles lined the Embankment while a helicopter and air ambulance circled overhead. Traffic was brought to a standstill, with buses forced to reverse. RNLI responders attended on a black rigid inflatable boat moored to the side of the river. The Port of London Authority said it was supporting the response with river traffic management.
The two incidents, occurring within 24 hours, have left six police officers hospitalised — a stark reminder of the dangers officers face both on the streets and on the water.