Police say that London City incident could have simply been an accident

By:

Add as a preferred source on Google

Police officers are investigating yesterday's evacuation of London City airport that led to 500 people being evacuated following a "chemical incident".

A search in the immediate aftermath of the incident identified what was believed to be either CS gas or a spray.

Read more: London City Airport evacuated after fire alarm

"Whilst the cause of the incident has not yet been confirmed, officers are investigating if it was the result of an accidental discharge of this cannister," the Metropolitan police said in a statement.

The evacuation took place at 4pm yesterday afternoon after a number of passengers and staff at the airport reporting that they were feeling well. Dozens were treated on site and two people were taken to hospital.

Read more: Flights resume at City Airport after Black Lives Matter protest on runway

The airport re-opened at 7pm and although enquiries continue, no arrests have been made so far. Police added:

At this early stage officers are investigating whether it may have been discarded by a passenger prior to check-in.

 

Among those caught up in the melee of people was boxer David Haye, who was travelling to Edinburgh to watch London 2012 Olympian Josh Taylor.