Driver in his 20s arrested for attempted murder after car crash in south London injured four police

A driver in his 20s has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a collision with a police vehicle that left four officers injured, one seriously.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses following the collision in Draycott Close, Southwark, at 1.30pm today.

The driver of the police vehicle remains in hospital with ‘potentially life-changing injuries’ while another officer is also being treated in hospital for injuries ‘not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening’. 

One of the officers was reportedly cut free from the wreckage by the London Fire Brigade.

Two other officers who were treated for minor injuries in hospital following the crash have returned home. A fifth officer sustained minor injuries in the arrest. 

Detectives are appealing for witnesses following the collision in Draycott Close, Southwark, at 1.30pm today

A man in his 20s, the driver of the other vehicle, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and taken to hospital for treatment to minor injuries.    

Police are searching for another man who was in the vehicle who is believed to have fled the scene.  

A statement from Metropolitan Police confirmed: ‘A police vehicle was involved in a collision with another car shortly before 13:30hrs on Tuesday, 20 October in Draycott Close near to the junction with Edmund Street, SE5.

‘The driver of the police vehicle remains in hospital with potentially life changing injuries. Another officer also remains in hospital injuries that are not believed life-threatening or life-changing.

‘Two other officers have been discharged with minor injuries. Another officer sustained minor injuries in the arrest.

Police are searching for another man who was in the vehicle who is believed to have fled the scene. Pictured: Draycott Close, Southwark, south London

‘The driver of the other vehicle- a man aged in his 20s – was taken to hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. He has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

‘Another man who was also in the vehicle is believed to have fled the scene. Enquiries to locate him are ongoing.

‘A number of roads remain closed while emergency services, including London Ambulance Service and the air ambulance, attend.

‘The Met’s Department of Professional Standards have been informed as is routine.

‘Detectives from Central South CID are investigating, supported by colleagues from the Roads and Transport Policing Command.

‘Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call 101 ref CAD 3656/20 Oct. Alternatively tweet @MetCC, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.’